Patient ventilation device including blower with divided air outlet channels

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a patient ventilation or breathing device and components therefore for use in all forms of respiratory apparatus ventilation systems including invasive and non-invasive ventilation, positive airway pressure therapy, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and particularly Bi-Level therapy and treatment for sleep disordered breathing (SDB) conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), and for various other respiratory disorders and diseases. The invention particularly relates to a blower, to a blade, to a gasket, to a cable, to an impeller, to a gas inlet and inlet member, to an improved air path or fluid flow path and components thereof, and/or to a modular ventilation or breathing device as referred to above and particularly incorporating one or more of the other aspects of the invention.

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.15/334,350, filed Oct. 26, 2016, now allowed, which is a continuation ofU.S. application Ser. No. 13/503,490, filed Apr. 23, 2012, now U.S. Pat.No. 9,512,856, which is the U.S. national phase of InternationalApplication No. PCT/EP2010/066498 filed 20 Oct. 2010 which designatedthe U.S. and claims priority to EP Patent Application No. 09174494.6filed 29 Oct. 2009, the entire contents of each of which are herebyincorporated by reference.

The invention relates to a patient ventilation or breathing device andcomponents therefore for use in all forms of respiratory apparatusventilation systems including invasive and non-invasive ventilation,positive airway pressure therapy, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure(CPAP), and particularly Bi-Level therapy and treatment for sleepdisordered breathing (SDB) conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea(OSA), and for various other respiratory disorders and diseases. Theinvention particularly relates to a blower, to a blade, to a gasket, toa cable, to an impeller, to a gas inlet and inlet member, to an improvedair path or fluid flow path and components thereof, and/or to a modularventilation or breathing device as referred to above and particularlyincorporating one or more of the other aspects of the invention.

Respiratory disorders and diseases such as sleep disordered breathing(SDB) conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) etc. are knownand various therapies for treating patients suffering of such disordersor diseases have been developed. Therapies for treating such disordersand diseases include, invasive and non-invasive ventilation, positiveairway pressure therapy, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP),Bi-Level therapy and treatment.

For example, Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatmentof Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) was invented by Sullivan (see U.S. Pat.No. 4,944,310). An apparatus for treating, e.g., OSA typically comprisesa blower that provides a supply of air or breathable gas to a patientinterface, such as a mask, via an air delivery conduit.

Such therapy is generally applied for many hours and even up to 24 hoursper day while the night time is a preferred application period. Thus,patients typically sleep while wearing the device. It is thereforedesirable to have a system which is quiet and comfortable. In addition,it is desirable to have a system which is effective and reliable andwhich allows a fast reaction on changing patient parameters. Moreover,it is desirable to provide a system which is easy to manufacture,assemble and maintain. Also, it is desirable to provide a system whichis more flexible as regards its modes and way of use. In order toimprove the patients' mobility it is furthermore desirable to provide aflexible and mobile breathing device.

Patient ventilation or breathing devices for application of suchtherapies are known in the art. Although many improvements have beenmade in the recent years known systems still suffer from slow responsetimes, high weight and large dimensions, a complex structure, as well asfrom high power consumption.

Such devices, i.a., generally comprise blowers or air pumps fordelivering air to the patient at a (or differing) required pressure(s).Blowers are typically classified as centrifugal, axial or mixed flow.Generally, blowers comprise two main parts: a rotating part, namely animpeller and shaft; and a stationary part that defines a fluid flowpath, typically a chamber such as a volute. Rotation of the impellerimparts kinetic energy to the air. The stationary part redirects the airexpelled from the impeller into an enclosed outlet passage. During thisredirection, resistance is encountered to flow because of the pressuregenerated by downstream resistance or a downstream pressure source. Asthe flow is slowed against this resistance, a portion of the kineticenergy is converted to potential energy in the form of pressure.

Generally, the faster the impeller is rotated, the higher the pressurethat will be developed. A less effective blower generally will have torotate its impeller faster to generate the same pressure as a moreeffective blower. Generally, running a given blower slower makes itquieter and prolongs its life time. Needless to say, there are furtherinfluences on a blowers effectiveness such as, e.g., size and weightdistribution. Hence, it is generally desirable to make blowers moreeffective at generating a supply of air at positive pressure. Inaddition, it is a general desire to make blowers more quiet. Moreover,there is the need of providing a system, particularly a blower which hasgood acceleration properties and allows good response characteristics,particularly for providing alternating pressures, and simultaneouslyachieves a high flow and pressure output.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, derived from prior art discussion inWO-A-2007/134405, three directions of a blower are defined, i.e., radialR, tangential T and axial A. Prior art centrifugal blower 10 includes anoutlet 20, an inlet 30, an electric motor 40, an impeller 50 and a shaft60. Arrows 70 indicate the general direction of airflow. Air enters theblower at the inlet 30 and is accelerated by the rotating impeller. Therotation imparted by the impeller generally directs the airflow in atangential direction T. The volute then constrains the airflow to spiralthe volute. The airflow then exits the blower in a generally tangentialdirection T via the outlet 20.

In some blowers, such as axially developed volute blowers, the volutegeometry directs the tangential spiraling airflow in a slight axialdirection A prior to exiting the blower in a generally tangentialdirection T.

The performance of a blower is often described using fan curves, whichshow the flow rate of air versus outlet pressure of air. Many factorsaffect the fan curve including impeller diameter and the number andshape of the impeller blades. The design process is a complex balancebetween competing priorities such as desired pressure, flow rate, size,reliability, manufacturability and noise. While many combinations ofsize, shape and configuration of components may produce a flow ofpressurized air, such a result may be far from optimal, or beimpractical.

A disadvantage of prior art blowers is they tend to suffer from noiseemission. It has been observed that beside the acoustic noise there isalso noise on the flow signal which may lead to difficulties or evenerrors in proper detection of the flow signal and thus todisadvantageous settings of the breathing device.

Although many attempts have been made in the art in order to improveblowers, there remains the need for an improved, simple, reliable, safe,effective and efficient blower which overcomes the disadvantages of theprior art.

In addition and in combination with the general design of the blower asreferred to above, the design of the impeller has huge impact on theoverall functionality, noise and effectiveness of the blower. Thus,there is the need for an improved, simple, reliable, safe, quiet,effective and efficient impeller which overcomes the disadvantages ofthe prior art.

In addition and in combination with the general design of the blowerand/or the impeller as referred to above, the design and arrangement ofthe fluid flow path, along which the breathable gas is directed, and itscomponents in a ventilation or breathing device and of the components ofthe ventilation or breathing device has huge impact on the overallfunctionality, noise and effectiveness of the ventilation or breathingdevice. This particularly applies for devices or therapies whereadditional gases, such as oxygen, are to be added to the flow ofbreathing gas. In this context, it is an additional aim to provide asafe and reliable provision of oxygen in order to reduce the risk offire should sparking occur within the apparatus. Thus, there is the needfor the provision of an improved, simple, safe, reliable, effective andefficient fluid flow path and its components.

For example, WO-A-2007/004898 relates to a breathing assistanceapparatus including a manifold that is provided with or retrofittable togas supply and humidifying devices. The manifold allows gases from anoxygen concentrator to be combined with the flow through a gases supplyand humidifying device, most usually air. The combined output of oxygenand other breathing gases (air) is then humidified. With this breathingassistance apparatus and manifold oxygen is added to the input airstream of a gases supply via an oxygen inlet port extending from theside of the manifold and its ambient air inlet aperture.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,701,883 discusses an oxygen mixing arrangement for or ina pressure support ventilator, in which a modular oxygen-providingassembly is selectively insertable into a greater respiration apparatus.A valving arrangement and metering for supplying the oxygen is usedwhich is added downstream from a valving arrangement used for ventingpatient exhaust flow and for controlling system pressure by ventingexcess gas flow to the ambient atmosphere.

These known devices still do not allow a safe, easy and reliable mixingof e.g. oxygen with the breathing gas flow.

WO-A-2008102216 relates to a gas supply unit for supplying pressurisedgas to a patient, wherein it comprises: a pneumatic housing forsupplying a flow of gas to the patient; a control housing (20) forcontrolling the flow of gas to be supplied to the patient; and a powersupply housing (30) for supplying power to the unit (1). The threehousings are distinct from one another and are designed for beingremovably coupled together to form a single unit.

The known concepts and designs of fluid flow paths and breathing devicesstill need further improvement, particularly as regards ease ofmanufacture, maintenance, functionality and/or safety.

In summary, there is the need for an improved patient ventilation orbreathing device and its components which overcomes the disadvantages ofthe prior art. In particular, there is the need for a reliable, safe,easy to manufacture, quiet, efficient and effective device and itscomponents which is flexible and easy to handle and to maintain.

It is an object underlying the present invention to provide an improvedpatient ventilation or breathing device as well as improved componentsfor a patient ventilation or breathing device, particularly with regardto the disadvantages of the prior art and the needs referred to above.

These and further objects, as are apparent from the above discussions ofthe prior art and its drawbacks as well as from the below discussion ofthe invention and its advantages, are fulfilled by the combination offeatures of the independent claims (and aspects as discussed below)while the dependent claims refer to preferred embodiments and aspects ofthe present invention.

The invention relates to a patient ventilation or breathing device andcomponents therefore for use in all forms of respiratory apparatusventilation systems including invasive and non-invasive ventilation,positive airway pressure therapy, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure(CPAP), and particularly Bi-Level therapy and treatment for sleepdisordered breathing (SDB) conditions such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea(OSA), and for various other respiratory disorders and diseases. Theinvention particularly relates to a blower and to a blade for use withand/or in combination with such blower. The invention alternatively oradditionally relates to an impeller, particularly for use with blowersas referred to above and particularly for use with a blower according tothe present invention. The present invention alternatively oradditionally relates to an improved air path or fluid flow path andcomponents thereof and therefore for use in ventilation or breathingdevices as referred to above and particularly for use with a blowerand/or impeller according to the present invention. Alternatively oradditionally, the invention relates to a modular ventilation orbreathing device as referred to above and particularly incorporating ablower, impeller and/or flow path according to the present invention.Alternatively or additionally, the present invention relates to a gasketand a cable to be used in ventilation or breathing devices as referredto above and particularly for use with the further aspects of thepresent invention. Alternatively or additionally, the invention alsorelates to a gas inlet and inlet member to be used in ventilation orbreathing devices as referred to above and particularly for use with oneor more of the further aspects of the invention such as the blower,impeller, gasket, modular ventilation or breathing device, and/or cableaccording to the present invention. Additionally, the present inventionrelates to patient ventilation or breathing devices incorporating theabove inventions.

An aspect of the invention is directed to a blower or air pump forquietly and effectively providing a supply of air at positive pressure.Such blower is preferably a blower for a patient ventilation orbreathing device, particularly for use in treatment of respiratorydiseases or disorders as discussed in the introductory portion of thepresent invention as well as for use with the further aspects of thepresent invention. Such blower comprises a stationary part which may bea housing and, more particularly, may take the form of a volute. Theblower further comprises a rotating portion to be coupled to a drivemeans, preferably an electric motor.

The blower furthermore comprises an air inlet and an air outlet. The airinlet may be axially arranged, wherein the air outlet may betangentially arranged. The air outlet is split into at least twochannels, preferably two channels which may be parallel. Preferably, theair outlet is of substantially radial cross-sectional shape wherein theoutlet may be split such that, .e.g, each of the two channels has asemi-circular cross-section. Alternatively, each of, e.g., four channelsmay have the cross section of a quadrant. The split of the air outlet isachieved by means of at least one blade dividing the outlet into the atleast two, preferably parallel, channels. The blade, which forms part ofthe stationary portion, preferably extends parallel to the direction ofthe air flow through the outlet and/or to the longitudinal axis of theair outlet.

The blade preferably extends in a plane defined by two axes, one beinggenerally parallel and one being generally perpendicular to the axis ofthe volute. Preferably, the air inlet is defined as a cylinder or tubelike inlet member extending from the interior of the blower.

According to a preferred embodiment, air enters the blower at the inletand is accelerated by the rotating impeller. The rotation imparted bythe impeller generally directs the air flow radially outwards in atangential direction T. The volute then constrains the air flow tospiral the volute. The air flow then exits the blower in a generallytangential direction T via the split outlet.

Preferably, the outlet channel and the channels achieved by the split ofsaid channel by means of the blade according to the invention,respectively, include a turn of the flow path about preferably an anglebetween about 70° to 110° and preferably of about 90°. Preferably, theturn is such that the turn of the flow path in the outlet channel issuch that the air exits the outlet channel in a direction parallel tothe axial direction, preferably parallel to the air inlet and preferablyin the contrary direction to the air inlet. In other words, the airpreferably enters the blower in one direction and exits the blower inthe opposite direction.

In this embodiment, the blade preferably extends along the turn of theflow path in the outlet and preferably comprises two portions, eachhaving a longitudinal axis, wherein these longitudinal axes enclose anangle lying in the plane of the blade and corresponding to the angle ofthe turn of the blower outlet. Preferably, said angle lies in the rangeof about 70° to 110° and preferably is about 90°.

Preferably, the blade is formed integral with the blower housing or atleast one part thereof such as with the volute or one part of itshousing, e.g., by means of plastic injection moulding. Preferably, thematerial of the blower is a biocompatible plastic of low flammability.However, it will be appreciated that other ways of manufacture and othermaterials may be applied.

The present invention alternatively and additionally relates to a bladefor use with a, preferably radial, blower for providing supply ofpositive pressure, and preferably with a blower according to the presentinvention. The blade is adapted to fit into an air outlet of the blowerand to split the outlet into at least two, preferably parallel,channels. According to a preferred embodiment, the blade preferablyextends along the whole length of the outlet channel. Preferably, theblade comprises at least two portions or sections, each having alongitudinal axis extending in the plane of the blade, wherein the twolongitudinal axes are inclined vis-à-vis one another in the plane of theblade and include an angle of about 70° to 110°, preferably of about90°. Preferably, the blade is L-shaped. The blade according to thepresent invention is preferably made of the same material as (thestationary part of) the blower.

Such blade preferably corresponds to the blower's blade referred toabove apart from being integrally formed with a part of a blowerhousing.

The blower according to the present invention is advantageous andparticularly has reduced noise emission. This has been proven bycomparative tests between identical blowers under identical operatingconditions with and without a blade according to the present invention.At the same time, the flow and pressure of the air flow pumped by theblower is not negatively impaired by the present invention. Preferredforms and features of the blower or blade, as referred to above relateto additional improvements vis-à-vis blowers without a blade. Thesolution according to the present invention is simple, reliable, andeasy to manufacture.

In one form of the invention suitable for respiratory devices the blowercomprises at least one impeller preferred embodiments of which will bediscussed further below.

In one form, the blower has one stage, in other forms of the invention,the blower has more than one stage. In forms of the invention wheremultiple stages are used along an axis, the motor may be positioned inthe centre and similar numbers of impellers may be positioned on eitherside of the motor along the axis.

Preferably, a motor is provided on the blower side axially opposite tothe axially arranged inlet opening.

An additional and/or alternative aspect of the present invention relatesto an impeller, particularly for use with blowers for use in medicaldevices and particularly for use in all forms of respiratory apparatusventilation systems as referred to in the introductory portion of thepresent invention and particularly for use with the blower and/or thefurther aspects of the present invention.

The impeller preferably comprises a plurality of vanes extending from adisk-like shroud. The shroud, located downwardly or away from the airinlet in the direction of air flow, preferably has a generally disk-likeshape.

The shroud preferably has a wavy or saw tooth shaped outer circumferencein an axial or bottom view wherein the outer diameter of the shroudvaries between a maximum outer diameter and a minimum outer diameter.Preferably, the maximum outer diameter is reached in a vicinity of theouter tips of the vanes while the minimum outer diameter is reachedbetween two adjacent vanes, preferably between each pair of adjacentvanes.

The vanes extend, preferably vertically, from the shroud and arepreferably formed integrally with the shroud. The impeller has an axisof rotation and is preferably of general rotational symmetry with regardto said axis.

Preferably, the vanes are radially arranged and extend from an innerdiameter to an outer diameter. Preferably, the vanes have asubstantially uniform height from their starting point at their innerdiameter close to the impeller's axis of rotation until a firstintermediate diameter; and a decreasing height from said firstintermediate diameter towards their end at an outer diameter, the firstintermediate diameter lying between the inner and outer diameters.Preferably, the blades are substantially straight from their startingpoint at their inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotationuntil a second intermediate diameter; and are curved from said secondintermediate diameter towards their end at the outer diameter, thesecond intermediate diameter lying between the inner and outerdiameters. Preferably, the second intermediate diameter preferably liesbetween the first intermediate diameter and the outer diameter.Alternatively, the second intermediate diameter preferably lies betweenthe inner diameter and the first intermediate diameter or equals thefirst intermediate diameter. The curvature can be either positive ornegative while it is preferably that the curvature is negative, i.e.,away from the direction of rotation.

The geometry of the increase in height is preferably aligned with thegeometry of the housing or stationary part and preferably correspondsthereto.

The impeller according to the present invention preferably has aninertia or moment of inertia of below about 3.2 g cm² and preferably ofbelow about 2.5 g cm². Preferably the moment of inertia lies in a rangebetween about 1.2 and 3.2 g cm² and preferably between about 1.2 and 2.5g cm² and preferably is about 2.2 g cm².

The impeller according to the present invention is preferably made ofplastic, preferably O₂ resistant plastic and/or preferably unfilledplastic material.

The impeller according to the present invention is advantageous andparticularly has reduced noise emission, a large pressure delivery for agiven motor speed, allows supply of a given pressure at a relatively lowmotor speed, and has a fast response time. Furthermore, the impelleraccording to the present invention preferably provides a rigid impellerwith comparatively low inertia. The impeller according to the presentinvention is particularly suitable for high-speed rotation, e.g. ofabout 50 k r/min. The impeller is particularly quiet, high efficient,allows fast motor acceleration to respond to the patient needs andexhibits very low stress at high speed. This particularly enables it tocycle between high and low speeds for ventilation and VPAP/BiPAP withvery low risk of fatigue failure due to low alternating stress level.

The present invention additionally and alternatively relates to a gasketand an air path for use in ventilation or breathing devices as referredto above and particularly for use with a blower, impeller and/or thefurther aspects of the present invention.

The gasket according to the present invention is, i.a., adapted tosealingly separate a high pressure area of a ventilation and breathingdevice from a low or ambient pressure area. The gasket preferablyfurthermore allows an advantageous arrangement of different areas and/orcomponents of a blower and particularly of the blower, the flow pathand/or muffling chamber(s).

The gasket preferably has a core of a comparatively hard material, whencompared to an outer material of the gasket, and preferably a core beingmade of aluminium. Said core is provided with one or more structuralelements, particularly for allowing air to be pumped from a low pressurearea to a high pressure area by means of, e.g., a blower, preferably ablower according to the present invention. The gasket in accordance withthe present invention is furthermore preferably provided with structuralelements which are suitable for providing a suspension to a blower, forsealingly connecting the gasket to a first and/or second part of ahousing defining an air path.

Said gasket is provided with a skin or coating of elastic plasticmaterial. Said material is comparatively softer than the core of thegasket and preferably is silicone. Silicone is particularly preferredsince it enhances O₂ resistance, is biocompatible and has advanceddampening and sealing characteristics. Preferably, substantially theentire core of the gasket is provided or coated with such skin. In thiscontext, ‘substantially’ is understood to mean more than 80% andpreferably more than 90% and further preferred more than 95% and up to100% of the core's surface area. In particular, depending on the way ofcoating, certain portions of the core may remain uncoated. This isparticularly the case if the core is held or supported by support meansduring coating so that no coating or skin will be applied at the contactportions between support member and core.

Such gasket is preferably advantageous in that it allows a sealingseparation of a high pressure and low pressure area and defining atleast two compartments in the ventilation and breathing device.Preferably, the gasket is adapted to sealingly contact a first part of ahousing which is provided with two chambers being open to one side ofsaid first housing part wherein both chambers open towards the same sideof the first housing part. One of said chambers defines a high pressurearea and the second chamber defines a low pressure area, the first partof the housing and thus each chamber of the housing sealingly contactingone side of the gasket. In addition, the gasket of the present inventionprovides support and suspension for a blower to be mounted to thegasket. Here, the gasket inherently provides parts, preferablysubstantial parts of the required fastening, supporting and dampeningmeans for such blower. Thus, the blower, and its motor, can be mountedto the gasket on one side thereof wherein the core of a relatively hardmaterial provides a supporting structure while the elastic plastic skinof the gasket is adapted to provide connection and support means whichparticularly allow a sealed and dampened connection between gasket andblower.

At the same time, the blower and motor is advantageously positioned sothat air can be sucked in or ventilated from the low pressure chamberthrough the gasket into the blower and then, at elevated pressure, tothe high pressure area. Preferably, the high pressure area or chamberand the low pressure area or chamber are provided next to one another ina first part of a housing and are both sealingly closed at one of theirsides by means of the gasket.

The gasket according to the present invention preferably has flat orsubstantially planar extensions while it is understood that the gasketis not exactly planar but provided with various structural elements,such as lips, rims, flanges, or elevations, for sealing connection withone or more parts of a housing, for positioning said housing and/or forsupporting, dampening and positioning of parts attached to the gasket,e.g., the blower. Preferably, the gasket is adapted to sealingly closetwo housing parts, preferably each located at one side of the gasket.The first part of the housing preferably defines or is separated into ahigh pressure compartment and a low pressure compartment. The secondpart of the housing preferably also comprises two chambers orcompartments one of which houses and supports the blower while thesecond one provides a path for the pressurised air be lead from the highpressure chamber defined in the first part of the housing through thegasket and towards the outlet of the device, e.g., into a hose directingthe pressurized air to a patient. The first and second chambers definedby the first part of the housing and the gasket are preferably filledwith a dampening or muffling material and are preferably foam filled andeven more preferably silicone foam filled.

The air path is thus preferably defined by the gasket and at least onepart of a housing, preferably two parts, being in sealing contact withthe gasket.

In order to allow circulation of air from the low pressure chamber intothe blower, which is located on the other side of the gasket vis-à-vissuch low pressure chamber, and then from the blower into the highpressure chamber, which is again located on the other side of the gasketvis-à-vis the blower and then preferably back to the other side of thegasket into an pressurized air leading path, the gasket preferablycomprises three, and preferably at least three, openings to allow air toflow from one side of the gasket to the other.

In the region of at least one, preferably two, of such holes the skin ofthe gasket provides combined sealing and connection means, particularlyfor sealingly supporting and dampening the blower. The sealing andconnection means is preferably adapted as an opening rim, preferablyring-shaped, into or through which a part of the blower, preferably theinlet and/or outlet channel, can be pushed. The rim then sealinglyconnects to the blower. Preferably, the rim is supported on or to thecore of the gasket by means of a suspension and/or dampening structure,such as a bellow, which is also formed by the skin or coating. While itis understood that the provision of one gasket with one planar core ispreferred, there may alternatively be provided e.g. two or more separatecores and/or core(s) which may extend in different planes.

The gasket according to the present invention provides various combinedand improved functionalities such as support of the housing parts and/orthe blower, dampening of the housing parts and/or the blower, sealingdifferent parts of the housings, such as the different pressure areas,and muffling. At the same time the gasket preferably is, particularlydue to the silicone skin and its structural arrangement, of increased O₂safety, being non-aging and allowing improved connection of, e.g., thehousing and the blower as well as positioning thereof. In particular,the gasket according to the present invention significantly improves thedesign, size and arrangement of the air path and its components andsupports and improves the ease and quality of assembly.

Particularly by the provision of the improved functionalities inaccordance with the gasket of the present invention there is provided astructure reducing leakage along the air path, which assists inreduction of number of the parts and improves the quality and timerequired for assembly and which assists an improved size and modularityof the ventilation device. In particular, the gasket according to thepresent invention allows a separation of the air path from other partsof the ventilation or breathing device, such as from the electronics,thereby increasing hygiene and safety. Moreover, the gasket according tothe present invention allows the provision of a separable andexchangeable air path, particularly of a small air path including fewcomponents and allowing an improved air flow with good noise reduction.

The gasket according to the present invention thus allows an arrangementin which a, preferably sensorless, blower unit is arranged outside theair path, improving hygene and safety and additionally leading to areduction of costs, parts, required space etc.

The present invention additionally and alternatively relates to a cableto be used in ventilation or breathing devices as referred to above andparticularly for use with a blower, impeller, gasket and/or the furtheraspects of the present invention.

The improved, preferably self-sealing, cable according to the presentinvention comprises a silicone coating. Preferably, there are providedtwo or more, preferably four or more, and even more preferred six ormore metal wires, preferably stranded wires or litz wires. These metalwires are located next to one another, preferably generally in one planeor in a circular or oval arrangement while being distanced from oneanother. These wires are provided with one silicone coating which isdirectly applied to the wire, i.e., with no intermediate sheath or thelike between the wire and the silicone coating.

The self-sealing cable according to the present invention is ofparticular advantage in that it provides electronic insulation of thedifferent metal wires vis-à-vis one another and the surrounding,exhibits an improved O₂ safety and can be clamped between two parts in aself-sealing manner. In other words, the self-sealing cable according tothe present invention can extend through the contact region between,e.g., two housing parts connected to one another and can extend from aninner side of such housing to an outer side thereof in a sealed mannerwithout the need for any additional sealing material and the like. Theself-sealing cable according to the present invention is in sealingcontact with the parts, here the parts of a housing, between which itextends without the need of any particular additional sealing means orthe like. The silicone coating preferably has a certain minimumthickness, e.g., of at least 0.5 mm measured along the shortest distancefrom the outer circumference or surface of the cable to one of thewires.

Such cable is preferably adapted for use with a blower and preferablywith the blower according to the present invention and allows powersupply, control and the like of said blower. Even more preferred, theself-sealing cable according to the present invention is used incombination with the gasket according to the present invention andpreferably also the blower according to the present invention so thatthe blower can be located in the air path while the cable extends fromthe motor inside the air path to the outside of this air path in aself-sealing manner, thereby increasing the freedom of construction,ease of manufacture and assembly and the like. Although not specificallyrequired, certain dimensions of contact regions for leading theself-sealing cable according to the present invention in a sealingmanner through the contact region of two contacting parts may be offurther advantage. In particular, a predefined gap between the two partsis provided with the general shape of and slightly smaller dimensionsthan the cable.

The invention additionally and alternatively relates to an inlet memberincluding an inlet filter for ventilation or breathing devices asreferred to above and particularly for use with a blower, impeller,gasket and/or the further aspects of the present invention. According toa preferred embodiment, the inlet member forms part of the air path asdescribed above.

Such inlet member preferably comprises an inlet housing comprising atleast a first part and a second part. Preferably, the housingadditionally comprises a third part. The inlet member housing comprisesan air inlet, preferably provided in and/or between two of the firstpart and/or the second part of the housing as well as an air outlet,preferably comprised in the second and/or third part of the housing. Theinlet member further comprises an inlet or filter path extending fromthe air inlet to the air outlet. Preferably, the filter path constitutespart of the air path of a ventilation or breathing device and/or the airoutlet of the filter is adapted to release filtered air into aventilation or breathing device and its air path, respectively. Theinlet member comprises an inlet filter for filtering the air flowingalong the inlet path. The inlet member and the inlet filter,respectively, are preferably located at the low pressure side of aventilation or breathing device. The air inlet allows ambient air toenter the inlet member and the filter and is not limited to oneindividual opening. Rather, the air inlet may comprise a plurality ofseparate openings to the ambience such as slots and/or holes.

Preferably, the inlet member comprises, in addition to the air inlet, anadditional or second inlet, e.g., for the provision of oxygen. Suchsecond inlet is preferably provided in or by the second part of theinlet housing and is accessible from the outside via a correspondingopening or cut out provided in the first part of the inlet housing.According to a preferred embodiment, the second inlet is provided as aseparate part, connectable to one of the inlet housing parts, preferablythe second inlet housing part, which separate part preferably extends tothe second outlet to be described in more detail below.

The filter element is preferably arranged inside the inlet housing andmore preferred between the air inlet and the air outlet of the filter.Alternatively, the filter element may also constitute or cover the airinlet. The filter element extends along the whole cross section of theair inlet path such that all air flowing through the air inlet memberflows through the filter element. Said filter element comprises a frameas well as a filter material connected to the frame. The filter frame ispreferably partly overmoulded with a soft material, of e.g. about 70Shore A, for improving handling and enhancing sealing of the filterframe in the inlet filter path. Preferably, the filter frame is providedwith a sealing lip. The filter element and thus its frame and filtermaterial, preferably generally extend in one or at least one plane. Thefilter frame is preferably biased. Preferably, it has a slight radiusresulting in a tension when assembled in a substantially plane position,thereby improving the proper sealing of the filter element in the inletflow path. Preferably, the filter element comprises a cut-out, recess oropening, particular for allowing the extension of the additional orsecond inlet or the corresponding second inlet path past the filterelement, without the gas or oxygen provided via the second inlet havingto flow through the filter.

The second or oxygen inlet path, which preferably has a channel likeconfiguration, extends from the second or oxygen inlet, preferablyforming part of the second part of the inlet housing or being a separatepart attached thereto, along the filter element to the outlet providedin or at the second part of the housing. The oxygen inlet path is thuspreferably part of the second part of the inlet housing. Preferably, theinlet path protrudes from the second part of the inlet housing andextends up to or through the first part of the inlet housing.Preferably, the first part of the inlet housing is provided with anopening or recess for allowing or facilitating accessibility of theoxygen inlet. The oxygen inlet is preferably provided with a connectionmeans for connecting an oxygen supply.

Preferably, the second part of the inlet housing comprises at least oneoutlet, preferably at least a first outlet and a second outlet. Thefirst outlet is in fluid connection with the first (air) inlet and thusthe inlet air flow. The second outlet is in fluid communication with thesecond (e.g. oxygen) inlet and thus the oxygen flow. Preferably, thefirst and second outlets are coaxially arranged. Preferably, the secondoutlet has a circular cross section while the first outlet has a ringshaped cross-section or geometry. Preferably, with regard to thedirection of the air and/or oxygen flow, the second or oxygen outlet isset back with regard to the first or air outlet. Preferably, the secondoutlet is located upstream of the first outlet seen in the direction ofair/oxygen flow, preferably immediately, i.e., less than 5 mm, upstream.

The first and second outlet are preferably provided in the second partof the housing. The air outlet and the oxygen outlet, are preferablyarranged such that an air flow through the air inlet and through thefilter is mixed with the oxygen supplied through the second or oxygeninlet, preferably due to the arrangement of the air and oxygen outletsas referred to above.

The air outlet and, if provided, also the oxygen outlet preferably leadto or open into an inlet chamber provided by, behind, and/or in thesecond part of the housing. Such inlet chamber preferably constitutes aninlet muffling chamber and/or a fluid flow path and/or a mixing chamberfor properly mixing the air flow with the oxygen flow. According to apreferred embodiment, such muffling chamber is defined and/or closed bya third inlet housing part.

The inlet member is of particular advantage and allows the filtering ofthe air as well as the mixture of air and oxygen close to the air inletand at the low pressure side of a ventilation or breathing device.Therefore, the provision of specifically pressurized oxygen or anindividual adaption of the oxygen pressure to the breathing pressurebecomes obsolete. Both, air and oxygen, preferably in a mixed form, canthus be supplied to the patient at optimized therapy pressure.Preferably, the inlet member of the breathing device functions as amuffler thus decoupling and dampening the noise emitted from thebreathing device and the blower towards the inlet side. Thus, the inletmember according to the present invention additionally exhibitsadvantageous sound dampening properties and particularly reduces theoverall noise of a ventilation or breathing device.

The housing of the inlet member preferably comprises structural elementsfor connection and securing the inlet member to a or inside a breathingor ventilation device. According to a preferred embodiment, the firstinlet housing part particularly serves the purpose of protecting theinlet filter or the filter element from damages, for dampening noise,for securing the filter, and/or for aligning the visible exterior designof the inlet member with the ventilation device housing and appearanceof a ventilation device to which the inlet member is to be connected.

The inlet member particularly allows an easy and safe inlet memberhandling. In particular, the filter element can be easyly handled andreplaced, e.g., by the patient, a nurse or a service team member and iseasy to ship and store. The inlet member according to the presentinvention furthermore reduces and preferably avoids bypass flow andserves a pre-muffler/silencer while allowing an optimized pressuredecoupling between the delivery pressure to the patient and the oxygensupplied pressure. The inlet filter preferably seals the air inlet pathso that all incoming air is filtered. Preferably the inlet filter is adust and/or pollen filter.

The invention additionally and alternatively relates to a modularventilation or breathing device as referred to above and particularlyfor use with a blower, impeller, gasket, air path and/or inlet memberaccording to the present invention.

The respiration or ventilation device according to the present inventionis preferably of an advantageous modular structure and comprises ahousing module, preferably provided with operator input and displaymeans. Additionally, there is provided an electric module, preferablycomprising a skeleton carrier for carrying, i.a., a control unit andfurther electronics required, and for providing structural support aswell as for allowing defined positioning of the modules and parts of theventilation device. The ventilation device further comprises an air pathmodule comprising an air path housing, comprising an air path inlet andan air path outlet, in which a blower is located. Preferably, the airpath is the air path according to the present invention, wherein the airpath housing comprises two parts each of which is sealingly connected toone side of the gasket according to the present invention while thegasket and/or the air path housing carries a blower including a motor,preferably the blower according to the present invention.

Preferably, the air path module includes an inlet member, preferably theinlet member in accordance with the present invention and/or a patientconnector.

The electric module is preferably further adapted to be connected to andsupport the housing of the ventilation device as well as to supportand/or position the air path module. In addition, the skeleton carrierand/or the electric module is preferably adapted for and comprises meansfor allowing a proper alignment and positioning of the different partsand modules of the ventilation device such as the parts of the housingmodule and/or the air path element. The electric module preferablycomprises the power supply, battery or accumulator pack, control unitand/or a display unit.

In particular, as has become clear from the above discussion of thegasket and the air path, the blower and its motor is/are simply pluggedor laid into the air path housing with out the need for any screws oradditional fastening members. Rather, the necessary suspension elementsare provided integrally with air path module and the housing module. Allthat needs to be provided are silicone cushions for dampening the blowerand motor in the housing. In addition, the device is adapted such thatthe electric module is simply laid onto the air path element without theuse of further screws or other additional fastening means.

Once the inlet member and/or a patient connector is connected to the airpath element, such as by plugging one into the other, preferably via aplug-in connector and/or flow sensor connector, and the air path is laidinto the lower part of the housing module, and the electric module isplaced over it, the combined electric module, the air path moduleincluding the inlet member, which are connected to one another withoutthe use of screws or additional separate fastening means, the upper partof the housing is placed over them. Then the, preferably two, parts ofthe housing module are screwed to one another, thereby simultaneouslyfixing and securing the position of the different modules (air pathmodule, electric module and housing module).

This configuration particularly allows an easy and advantageous way ofmanufacturing of the ventilation device as well as of its assembly. Areduced number of parts can be provided which are individuallymanufactured, prepared and mounted. These modules can then be easilyassembled to constitute the ventilation device according to the presentinvention. Preferably, only a reduced number of fastening means such asscrews, needs to be applied since the modular design of the ventilationdevice allows advantageous simultaneous fastening of the differentmodules. The device of the present invention is therefore of particularadvantage since it allows an easy and fast assembly as well asdisassembly and thus an improved maintenance or repair. Individualcomponents can be easily replaced. Particularly all components being incontact with air inhaled or exhaled by a patient can be easily replaced.

The modular ventilation device of the present invention is also ofparticular advantage from the point of cleanliness and/or security. Inparticular, the device according to the present invention allows a clearseparation between air path, including eventual oxygen supply, andelectronics and/or housing. No part of the device housing constitutespart of the flow path. Not part of the electric or electronics and thusno circuit board or electric part lies in the air path. Preferably, theonly sensor to be provided in the air path is the flow sensor which ispreferably located between inlet member and flow path housing. Thus,preferably no dust and/or lint is lead to the electronics together withthe air flow. Preferably, the patient is not exposed to the danger ofinhaling smoke of burning of electronic parts.

Another aspect of the invention relates to a method for supplying air atpositive pressure to a patient for treatment including providing air toa blower of the invention, pressurizing said air and supplying the airat positive pressure to a patient. Preferably, said method is used forproviding a therapy as discussed in the introductory part of theapplication, such as a Bi-PAP therapy. Another aspect of the inventionrelates to the use of one or more of the aspects of the invention in theapplication of such method or therapy. Another aspect of the inventionrelates to the assembly of a modular patient ventilation deviceaccording to the present invention.

The ventilation device of the present invention is of particularadvantage, as becomes clear from the overall discussion of advantagesand benefits of the different aspects of the invention. In particular,there is provided an effective and efficient ventilation device whichallows the provision of an optimized, fast therapy at reduced powerconsumption. Thus, the device can suitably be used with a batterypack—instead of being dependent on the generally power supply.

Additional and/or alternative preferred aspects of the present inventionrelate to the following items:

-   1. A blower for providing a supply of air at positive pressure    having a stationary portion and a rotating portion, an air inlet and    an air outlet, wherein the air outlet is split into at least two,    preferably parallel, channels.-   2. Blower according to item 1, wherein the stationary portion is a    housing, preferably having the shape of a volute, and preferably    forming part of the flow channel.-   3. Blower according to item 1 or 2, wherein the rotating portion is    an impeller.-   4. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    rotating portion is coupled to a drive means, preferably an electric    motor.-   5. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    air inlet is generally axially arranged with regard to the axis of    rotation of the rotating portion.-   6. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    air outlet is tangentially arranged with regard to the axis of    rotation of the rotating portion.-   7. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    air outlet is of substantially radial cross sectional shape and/or    is preferably split such that each of the two channels has a    semi-circular cross-section.-   8. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    air outlet directs the air flow generally tangentially out of the    volute.-   9. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    air outlet has at least a or a first portion being arranged    substantially tangentially with regard to a radius around the axis    of rotation of the rotating means.-   10. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    air outlet has at least a or a second portion extending generally    parallel to the axis of the air inlet.-   11. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    split of the air outlet is achieved by means of at least one blade    dividing the outlet into at least two, preferably parallel,    channels.-   12. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    blade forms part of the stationary portion and extends parallel to    the direction of the air flow through the outlet and/or to the    longitudinal axis of the air outlet.-   13. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    blade extends in a plane defined by two axes, one being generally    parallel and one being generally perpendicular to the axis of the    stationary portion and/or of the axis of rotation of the rotating    portion.-   14. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    blower is a radial blower.-   15. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    outlet channel and/or the channels achieved by the split of said    outlet channel and/or the blade include a turn of the flow path of    about 70° to 110°, preferably of about 90°.-   16. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    blade is L-shaped-   17. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    blade is formed integral with at least a part of the stationary    portion, preferably of the blower housing or preferably of the    volute-   18. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    outlet channel and/or the blade is arranged and located such that it    extends from the volute and/or in or into the outlet channel from a    starting point lying on a tangent to a radius around the axis of    rotation of the rotating part of the blower-   19. Blower according to any one of the preceding items, wherein the    outlet channel and/or the blade is arranged and located such that it    extends from the volute and/or in or into the outlet channel from a    starting point lying on the inner radius of the volute or housing.-   20. Blade for use with a, preferably radial, blower for providing a    supply of air at positive pressure, particularly according to any    one of items 1 to 19, the blade being adapted to fit into an air    outlet of the blower and to split the outlet into at least two,    preferably parallel channels.-   21. Impeller for use in a blower for providing a supply of air at    positive pressure, particularly a blower according to any one of    items 1 to 19, the impeller having an inertia of less than about 3.2    g cm², preferably of about 2.5 g cm².-   22. Impeller according to item 21, wherein the moment of inertia    lies in a range between about 1.2 and 3.2 g cm² and preferably    between about 1.2 and 2.5 g cm² and preferably is about 2.2 g cm².-   23. Impeller for use in a blower for providing a supply of air at    positive pressure, particularly a blower according to any one of    items 1 to 19, and particularly an impeller according to item 21 or    22, the impeller comprising a plurality of vanes extending from a    shroud, wherein the shroud has a substantially wavy shaped outer    circumference.-   24. Impeller according to item 23, wherein the wavy shaped outer    diameter extends between a minimum diameter Dmin and a maximum    diameter Dmax, wherein the minimum diameter Dmin is in the range of    about 24 to 32 mm, preferably about 28 mm, and wherein the maximum    diameter Dmax is in the range of about 38 to 46 mm, preferably about    42 mm, and/or wherein the difference between the minimum and maximum    diameter is about 4 to 22 mm, preferably about 10 to 18 mm.-   25. Impeller according to item 23 or 24, wherein the maximum outer    diameter is reached in a vicinity of the outer tips of the vanes    and/or wherein the minimum outer diameter is reached between two    adjacent vanes, preferably between each pair of adjacent vanes.-   26. Impeller according to any one of items 23, 24 or 25, wherein the    vanes have a portion with constant height and a portion of varying    height-   27. Impeller according to any one of items 23 to 26, wherein the    vanes have a substantially uniform height from their starting point    at their inner diameter until a first intermediate diameter; and a    decreasing height from said first intermediate diameter towards    their end at their outer diameter, the first intermediate diameter    lying between the inner and outer diameters.-   28. Impeller according to any one of items 23 to 27, wherein the    blades are substantially straight from their starting point at their    inner diameter until a second intermediate diameter; and are curved    from said second intermediate diameter towards their end at their    outer diameter, the second intermediate diameter lying between the    inner and outer diameters.-   29. Impeller according to any one of items 23 to 28, wherein a    second intermediate diameter of the vanes preferably lies between a    first intermediate diameter and the outer diameter.-   30. Impeller according to any one of items 23 to 29, wherein the    vanes are curved, the curvature preferably being negative, i.e.,    away from the direction of rotation.-   31. Gasket for use in a breathing or ventilation device for    providing a supply of air at positive pressure and for sealingly    separating different areas of a flow path, preferably high pressure    areas of a ventilation and breathing device from low or ambient    pressure areas, the gasket comprising a core of a comparatively hard    material and an outer layer being of a comparatively soft material    as compared to the core.-   32. Gasket according to item 31, wherein the core is made of    aluminium and/or wherein the outer layer is made of silicone, said    outer layer covering substantially the entire gasket.-   33. Gasket according to any one of items 31 to 32, wherein the core    and/or the outer layer is/are provided with one or more structural    elements, particularly for allowing sealing contact, positioning,    suspension and/or dampening of a blower and/or a housing defining an    air path.-   34. Gasket according to any one of items 31 to 33, wherein the    gasket is of substantially planar shape.-   35. Gasket according to any one of items 31 to 34, wherein the    gasket has two sides, a first side for sealingly contacting and    closing a first part of a housing and a second side for sealingly    contacting and closing a second part of a housing thereby defining    different areas or compartments such as high pressure areas and low    pressure areas.-   36. Gasket according to any one of items 31 to 35, wherein the    gasket comprises at least two and preferably at least three, also    preferred three, openings or holes for allowing an air flow to be    directed from one side of the gasket to its other side.-   37. Gasket according to any one of items 31 to 36, wherein the    gasket comprises openings or holes being provided with support    structures, established by the outer layer.-   38. Flow path for a breathing or ventilation device for providing a    supply of air at positive pressure, the flow path comprising first    flow path housing part having an air outlet and being in sealing    contact with a first side of a gasket according to any one of items    31 to 37 and a second flow path housing part having an air inlet and    being in sealing contact with a second side of said gasket.-   39. The flow path according to item 38, further comprising a blower,    preferably according to any one of items 1 to 19, being supported by    said gasket and being located inside the first housing part.-   40. The flow path according to any one of items 38 or 39, the first    flow path housing having a generally cup like structure, preferably    being separated into at least two chambers by a separation wall,    wherein the gasket sealingly closes the cup like structure and    preferably each of the at least two chambers and/or the second flow    path housing having a generally cup like structure, preferably being    separated into at least two chambers by a separation wall, wherein    the gasket sealingly closes the cup like structure and preferably    each of the at least two chambers.-   41. The flow path according to any one of items 38 to 40, the blower    and its motor being supported in the flow path on one end of the    motor by means of the first flow path housing and on the fluid inlet    and/or the fluid outlet of the blower by means of the gasket,    preferably by support structures provided at the openings for    allowing air to flow form one side of the gasket to the other side.-   42. The flow path according to any one of items 38 to 41, wherein    the flow path is arranged such that breathable gas flowing along the    flow path crosses the gasket at least twice and preferably three    times, preferably by flowing through at least two and preferably    three openings or holes provided in the gasket.-   43. Self sealing cable, particularly for use with a blower,    impeller, gasket or air path according to any one of items 1 to 42,    the cable comprising a plurality of metal wires, the cables being    provided with one silicone coating only.-   44. Cable according to item 43, the wires being stranded wires or    litz wires.-   45. Cable according to item 43 or 44, comprising at least three,    preferably five or more wires.-   46. Cable according to any one of items 43 to 45, the silicone    coating serving as a coating for each individual wire, as    positioning means for each wire vis-à-vis its neighbouring wires,    and as self sealing skin allowing the cable to be sealingly clamped    between two components, preferably without the need for additional    sealing material.-   47. Cable according to any one of items 43 to 46, wherein the    silicone coating has a thickness of at least 0.5 mm, preferably of    at least 0.6 mm and preferably of at least about 0.7 mm, measured    along the shortest distance from the outer surface of the cable to    one of the wires.-   48. Inlet member for a ventilation or breathing device, comprising a    first inlet for receiving a first fluid flow, preferably an ambient    air flow, and a second inlet for receiving a second fluid flow,    preferably an oxygen flow, the inlet member defining a first and    second fluid flow path and comprising a first and second outlet,    respectively, the first outlet being of a ring like shape, the    second outlet being arranged coaxially to the first inlet and/or    being surrounded by the generally ring shaped first outlet.-   49. Inlet member according to item 48, comprising a housing having    at least one inlet housing part being provided with the first fluid    flow path outlet and the second fluid flow path outlet.-   50. Inlet member according to item 48 or 58, comprising a filter    element extending over the whole cross section of the first fluid    flow path.-   51. Inlet member according to item 48, 49 or 50, having a/the filter    element comprising a frame and a filter material, which has a    generally planar extension and generally extends in at least one    plane wherein the filter frame preferably defines and surrounds the    at least one a plane in which the filter material extends.-   52. Inlet member according to any one of items 50 to 51, wherein the    filter frame is at least partly overmoulded with a material being    softer than the material of the filter frame.-   53. Inlet member according to any one of items 50 to 52, wherein the    filter frame is provided with handling members and/or a sealing    structure such as a sealing lip, preferably made of a soft material    according to item 53.-   54. Inlet member according to any one of items 50 to 53, wherein the    filter frame is biased and preferably has a slight radius resulting    in a tension when assembled in a substantially plane position which    supports proper sealing of the filter element in the inlet flow    path.-   55. Inlet member according to any one of item 48 to 54, comprising    an inlet housing comprising at least a first part and a second part    and preferably a third part, wherein the inlet member housing    comprises an air inlet, preferably provided in and/or between two of    the first part and/or the second part of the housing as well as an    air outlet, preferably comprised in the second and/or third part of    the housing.-   56. Inlet member according to any one of item 48 to 55, wherein the    second inlet and the associated second fluid flow path is provided    in or by the second part of the inlet housing and is accessible from    the outside via a corresponding opening or cut out provided in the    first part of the inlet housing.-   57. Inlet member according to any one of item 48 to 55, wherein the    second inlet and the associated second fluid flow path is provided    as a separate part, connectable to one of the inlet housing parts,    preferably the second inlet housing part, which separate part    preferably extends to and is in fluid connection with the second    outlet.-   58. Inlet member according to any one of item 48 to 57, having at    least one inlet housing part being defining at least a second inlet    chamber forming part of a first and second inlet flow channel, the    second inlet chamber being arranged downstream, seen in direction of    the fluid flow, of the first and second outlets and providing a    combined fluid flow path for the fluid flow through the first and    the fluid flow through the second opening.-   59. Inlet member according to any one of items 48 to 58, having at    least one inlet housing part being defining at least a second inlet    chamber forming part of a first and second inlet flow channel, the    second inlet chamber being covered by a third inlet housing part or    lid comprising an outlet of the inlet member.-   60. Inlet member according to any one of items 48 to 59, provided    with at least one inlet chamber being filled with a muffling    material, preferably silicone foam.-   61. Inlet member according to any one of items 48 to 59,    constituting a first inlet flow path from first inlet 612 through    filter 620 into a first inlet chamber 622 and through outlet 632    into a second inlet or muffling chamber 624 until outlet 612 and/or    a second inlet flow path from second inlet 618 through channel 662    through second outlet 632 into second inlet or muffling chamber 624    until outlet 612, wherein the first and second inlet flow paths are    joined as from the first 630 and second 632 outlet, respectively,    and/or as from second inlet or muffling chamber 624.-   62. Modular ventilation, comprising a housing module, an electric    module and an air path module.-   63. Modular ventilation device according to item 62, the air path    module comprising the flow path according to any one of items 38 to    42, preferably including the inlet member of any one of items 48 to    61 connected thereto.-   64. Modular ventilation device according to item 62 or 63, the    electric member comprising a skeleton carrier providing structural    support and positioning aid for the air path module and the housing    module.-   65. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    64, the housing module comprising a first housing part and a second    housing part, connected to one another by means of at least two,    preferably at least three and more preferably five fastening screws,    wherein the modules are arranged such that the fastening screws    simultaneously fasten the first and second housing parts of the    housing module, the electric module and/or the air path module with    regard to one another.-   66. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    65, wherein the air path module is laid into the housing module    without the need of further fixation and is fastened between one of    the two parts of the housing and the electric member upon connecting    the first and second housing part to one another.-   67. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    66, wherein the suspension elements required for positioning,    supporting and/or dampening the air path module are provided    integrally with air path module and/or the housing module,    respectively.-   68. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    67, wherein the inlet member and/or a patient connector is connected    to the air path element, such as by plugging one into the other,    preferably via a plug-in connector and/or flow sensor connector.-   69. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    68, wherein the air path module is laid into the lower part of the    housing module, and the electric module is placed over it, such that    the combined electric module, the air path module including the    inlet member, are connected to one another without the use of screws    or additional separate fastening means.-   70. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    69, wherein the, preferably two, parts of the housing module are    screwed to one another, thereby simultaneously fixing and securing    the position of the different modules, such as the air path module,    electric module and housing module.-   71. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    70, wherein no part of the device outer housing or housing module    constitutes part of the flow path.-   72. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    71, wherein no part of the electric or electronics and thus no    circuit board or electric part lies in the air path.-   73. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    72, wherein the only sensors to be provided in the air path are    provided outside the flow path member, e.g. the flow sensor which is    preferably located between inlet member and flow path member and the    pressure sensor which is preferably located between the patient    connector and the flow path member.-   74. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 62 to    73, further comprising a fan, preferably placed on the lower part of    the housing module.-   75. Modular ventilation device according to item 74, wherein the fan    is at least partly located over a corresponding opening or air inlet    provided in the lower part.-   76. Modular ventilation device according to item 74 or 75, wherein    the fan is supported, preferably clamped, in the device between the    lower part and the electric module.-   77. Modular ventilation device according to any one of items 74, 75    or 76, wherein the fan preferably comprises an elastic, preferably    silicone, jacket or sheath extending around at least part of the,    preferably rigid, fan housing.-   78. Combination of a blower according to any one of items 1 to 19    with a blade according to item 20, with an impeller according to any    one of items 21 to 30, with a gasket according to any one of items    31 to 37, with a flow path according to any one of items 38 to 42,    with a cable according to any one of items 43 to 47, with an inlet    member according to any one of items 48 to 61, and/or with a modular    ventilation or breathing device according to any one of items 62 to    77.-   79. Method for supplying air at positive pressure to a patient for    treatment including providing air to a blower of the invention,    pressurizing said air and supplying the air at positive pressure to    a patient, preferably for applying a Bi-PAP therapy, using a blade    according to item 20, and/or an impeller according to any one of    items 21 to 30, and/or a gasket according to any one of items 31 to    37, and/or a flow path according to any one of items 38 to 42,    and/or a cable according to any one of items 43 to 47, and (or an    inlet member according to any one of items 48 to 61, and/or a    modular ventilation or breathing device according to any one of    items 62 to 77 and/or a combination according to item 78.-   80. Use of one or more of the items of the invention, such as a    blade according to item 20, an impeller according to any one of    items 21 to 30, and/or a gasket according to any one of items 31 to    37, and/or a flow path according to any one of items 38 to 42,    and/or a cable according to any one of items 43 to 47, and/or an    inlet member according to any one of items 48 to 61, and/or a    modular ventilation or breathing device according to any one of    items 62 to 77 and/or a combination according to item 78 in the    application of a method or therapy according to item 79.-   81. Assembly of a modular patient ventilation device according to    one of items 62 to 77.

Other aspects, features, and advantages of this invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description when taken inconjunction with the accompanying drawings, which are a part of thisdisclosure and which illustrate, by way of example, principles of thisinvention.

The invention will further be discussed by exemplary reference to thepreferred embodiments shown in the drawings. In the drawings,

FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a generic prior art blower assembly;

FIG. 2 shows an elevation view of the generic prior art blower assemblyshown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows a three dimensional front view of a ventilation deviceaccording to the present invention;

FIG. 4 shows a three dimensional back view of the ventilation deviceshown in FIG. 3

FIG. 5 shows a three dimensional top view of the ventilation deviceshown in FIGS. 3 and 4;

FIG. 6 shows a three dimensional top view of a preferred bloweraccording to the present invention including a motor attached to theblower;

FIG. 7 shows a three dimensional side view of the blower according toFIG. 6 (motor not shown) facing the outlet channel of the blower;

FIG. 8 shows a three dimensional view of a first part of the blowerhousing of the blower of FIG. 6 from the inside of the blower;

FIG. 9 shows a three dimensional view of a second part of the blowerhousing of the blower of FIG. 6 from the inside of the blower;

FIG. 10 shows an exploded three dimensional view of the blower shown inFIGS. 6 to 9;

FIGS. 11a and 11b show a three dimensional top view (FIG. 11a ), a sideview (FIG. 11b ), of a preferred impeller according to the presentinvention;

FIGS. 12a and 12b show a three dimensional partly cross sectional sideview along line A-A of FIG. 11a (FIG. 12a ) and a bottom view (FIG. 12b) of the impeller according to FIG. 11;

FIG. 13a-13c show a first (FIG. 13a ) a second (FIG. 13b ) and a third(FIG. 13c ) three dimensional side view of a core of a gasket accordingto the present invention;

FIGS. 14a-14c show three dimensional side views (FIGS. 14a-14c ) of acoated core corresponding to the views of the gasket core shown in FIGS.13a -13 c;

FIGS. 15a-15c show different three dimensional views (FIGS. 15a, 15b,15c ) of core 400 in combination with a blower, preferably a blower inaccordance with the present invention, and with fluid flow part members;

FIG. 16a-16c show three dimensional views corresponding to those ofFIGS. 15a, 15b and 15c wherein housing parts are attached to the gasket;

FIGS. 17a-17b show three dimensional views of the first (FIG. 17a ) andsecond (FIG. 17b ) part of the flow path housing taken along line A-A(FIG. 17a ) and B-B (FIG. 17b ) of FIG. 16 a;

FIG. 18 shows a three dimensional view of an air path according to thepresent invention;

FIGS. 19a-19b show preferred embodiments (FIG. 19a , FIG. 19b ) of acable in accordance with the present invention;

FIGS. 20a-20d show an inlet member according to the present invention,wherein FIG. 20a shows a three dimensional side view, FIG. 20b a topview, FIG. 20c a bottom view and FIG. 20d a side view seen in anopposite direction of the view shown in FIGS. 20a-20d of said inletmember;

FIGS. 21a-21d show a preferred embodiment of a first inlet housing partwhile the three dimensional views shown in FIGS. 21a to 21d correspondto those of FIGS. 20a -20 d;

FIGS. 22a-22d show a preferred embodiment of a second inlet housing partwhile the three dimensional views shown in FIGS. 22a and 22d correspondto those of FIGS. 20a -20 d;

FIGS. 23a-23c show a three dimensional filter element according to thepresent invention (FIG. 23a ) while FIGS. 23b and 23c show views of thefilter element attached to the second inlet housing part;

FIG. 24 shows an exploded three dimensional view of the inlet memberaccording to FIGS. 19a to 22 d;

FIGS. 25a-25b show a three dimensional view of an electric moduleaccording to the invention;

FIGS. 26a-26b show a three dimensional top (FIG. 26a ) and bottom (FIG.26b ) view of an air path module according to the invention; and

FIG. 27 shows an exploded three dimensional view of the modularventilation device according to, i.a., FIGS. 24a to 26 b;

FIGS. 3, 4 and 5 show a three-dimensional front, back and top view of aventilation device according to the present invention. The ventilationdevice 100 comprises a housing 104 provided with various input means 106such as turn buttons, push buttons, and the like as well as a display orwindow unit 108 for displaying information, such as settings etc., tothe user. The ventilation device further comprises one or more air inletopenings, generally referred to as inlet 110, and an air outlet 112,preferably provided with means of for connecting further components of abreathing or ventilation system such a respiratory tube or hose fordelivering pressurized air to a patient and/or a humidifier.

The ventilation means 100 furthermore comprises a filter, preferablyprovided by an inlet member, provided behind the air inlet 110 forfiltering ambient air entering the air inlet 110 of the ventilationdevice 100 and then being directed though the filter. The ventilationmeans preferably comprises an oxygen inlet 118 as well as means forconnecting a supply of oxygen and for allowing, e.g., additional oxygento enter the ventilation device 100. Such oxygen is, preferably in aninlet member and thus inside the ventilation device 100, added to theincoming air sucked in via the inlet 110 and through the filter andpreferably mixed therewith. In a preferred embodiment, the filter, andpreferably also the inlet member, is an integral part of ventilationdevice 100, preferably its air path.

Housing 104 of ventilation device 100 comprises, according to apreferred embodiment, an upper housing part 104 a and the lower housingpart 104 b. The ventilation device 100 may further comprise additionalports or connection means 120 which allow connection of cables, such aspower cables, USB cables, sensor cables and the like, i.e., constitutinginterfaces for connection of further devices for exchanging informationand for providing power input. In addition, alternatively, a ventilationdevice 100 may comprise means for receiving a battery pack for providingthe necessary power for mobile operation of the ventilation device.

Such device, as well as preferred individual components thereof, isdiscussed in the following, while it is understood that the individualcomponents discussed below can equally be used alone or with similar ordifferent devices.

FIGS. 6 to 9 show various three-dimensional views of a preferred bloweraccording to the present invention or of parts and components thereof.FIG. 10 shows an exploded view of the blower shown in FIGS. 6 to 9.

Blower 200 comprises a housing 202 having the general shape of a volute.Preferably, the housing comprises two parts 202 a, 202 b, which areconnected, e.g., mechanically and/or by means of ultrasonic welding. Thehousing 202 constitutes the stationary portion of the blower 200. Theblower 200 further comprises a rotating portion comprising at least oneimpeller and a shaft to be driven by electric motor 208. In anembodiment, the electric motor 208 may be a brushless d.c. motor. In theillustrated embodiment, the blower has one stage while it is wellunderstood that the blower may comprise two or more stages. The rotatingportion of blower 200 is not shown in FIGS. 6 to 9. However, accordingto a preferred embodiment, impeller 300 according to the presentinvention constitutes the rotating portion of blower 200 according tothe present invention.

The blower comprises an air inlet 204, preferably having a tubularshape, as well as an air outlet 206. Air inlet 204 is axially arranged,i.e., so that air enters the blower at the inlet 204 in a generallyaxial direction A (compare FIG. 2). The term axial used herein withregard to the blower relates to the longitudinal axis of the stationaryportion, e.g., around which the volute winds, and/or around whichrotating portion rotates. That axis is shown in FIG. 6 as axis 250.Arrows indicate the general direction of air flow.

The rotation imparted by the impeller generally directs the air flowradially outwardly in a tangential direction T (compare FIG. 1) whereinthe volute then constrains the air flow to spiral the volute. The airflow then exits as the blower or volute in a generally tangentialdirection T via the outlet 206.

Preferably, the volute geometry directs the tangential spiralling airflow in a slight axial direction prior to exiting the blower in agenerally tangential direction.

In the shown embodiment, outlet 206 comprises a first axis 260 beinggenerally tangentially arranged with regard to the blower andparticularly its volute shape and/or rotation of impeller. Tangentialaxis 260 is preferably arranged essentially perpendicular to axial axis250. Preferably, axis 250 and tangential axis 260 are distanced(shortest way) by less than 50 mm, and preferably by a length whichgenerally corresponds to the radius of the blower, volute, and/orimpeller. As indicated above, axis 260 preferably is a tangent to aradius 232 around the axis of rotation of the rotating part of theblower.

The outlet channel 206 of the blower 200 is, as shown, preferablyL-shaped and comprises a first outlet portion or first outlet channel216 extending along tangential axis 260 and a second outlet portion 218extending in general perpendicular thereto and preferably parallel toaxial axis 250. However, it will be appreciated that according todifferent embodiments, the outlet channel is not L-shaped but may bestraight and/or curved.

The axis of the second portion 218 of the outlet is herein referred toas axis 270 and is preferably parallel to axial axis 250. However, itwill be well understood that axis 270 of the second outlet portion 218may have different directionalities. According to a preferredembodiment, axis 260 and 270 include an angle of preferably about 70° to110° and preferably of about 90°.

Preferably, the length of the first portion 216 of the outlet lies inthe range from about 12 to 23 mm and preferably of about 18 mm alongaxis 260. According to a preferred point of reference, the length of thefirst portion 216 along axis 260 starts from the intersection of axis260 with the outer radius of the blower, as is indicated in FIG. 8. InFIG. 8 the outer radius of the inside of blower 200 is indicated as 230,while the starting point of the first portion 216 is indicated as ‘p’.First portion 216 preferably ends at the cross-section of the axis 260of the first portion of the outlet 216 and the axis 270 of the secondportion of the outlet 218.

Preferably, the blower is made of plastic material.

Preferably, the diameter of the outlet 206 is about 12 to 23 mm andpreferably about 17 mm, the diameter of the inlet 204 is about 10 to 20and preferably about 15 mm, the radius of the blower is about 57 to 67and preferably about 62 mm; the shortest distance between axis 250 and270 is about 37 to 47 mm and preferably about 42 mm. Preferably, theinlet 204 of the blower is of generally tubular shape and extends fromthe blower housing 202 a. Inlet 204 preferably has a length of about 5to 15 mm, preferably of about 10 mm. Preferably, inlet opening 204 andoutlet opening 206 lie in one plane.

According to the present invention, the air outlet 206 is split into atleast two channels 212, 214, which are preferably parallel. Preferably,the air outlet 206 is of substantially circular cross-sectional shapewherein the outlet is split such that each of the two channels 212, 214has a semi-circular cross-section and particularly has a substantiallyidentical cross section. The two channels preferably extend along thelength of the outlet 206 and preferably along first portion 216 and/orsecond portion 218, preferably along both portions.

The present invention additionally and alternatively relates to a blade210 as well as to a blower 200 provided with such blade 210. Blade 210is preferably made of the same material as the blower and is preferablyintegrally formed with one of the two housing parts 202 a or 202 b ofthe blower housing or volute 202. Alternatively a portion of the blade210 may be integrally formed in each of the two housing parts 202 a and202 b. However, it will be well understood that blade 210 may also beprovided separately and to then be connected to one or two of housing orvolute parts 202 a, 202 b.

Blade 210 preferably extends substantially along the length of outlet206, and preferably along the length of the first part 216 and thesecond part 218 of outlet 206. Blade 210 splits outlet 206 into twochannels, namely a first channel 212 and a second channel 214 both ofwhich individually extend along outlet 206 and first and second outletportion 216, 218. Thus, blade 210 preferably comprises a first portion220 and a second portion 222 corresponding to the first and second part216, 218 of outlet 206.

Blade 210 preferably extends parallel to the direction of the air flowthrough the outlet and/or to the longitudinal axis 260 or axes 260, 270of the air outlet 206. Blade 210 preferably extends in a plane definedby two axes, one being generally parallel and one being generallyperpendicular to the axis of the volute.

Blade 210 is preferably located and arranged such that it extends in orinto the outlet channel from a starting point ‘p’ as defined above.Preferably, blade 210 starts at said starting point ‘p’ or distancedfrom that starting point, preferably by about ±3 mm. As will beunderstood, if blade 210 extends too far into the volute, blade passnoise will be increased. If blade 210 starts too far from the volute,efficiency will be less.

Preferably, outlet 206 has a substantially circular cross-section whileblade 210 splits outlet 206 along its diameter into the first and secondchannel 212, 214, which may be of equal shape and cross-sectionaldiameter, preferably of semi-circular cross-section.

Blade 210 is preferably substantially planar and extends along the axisof outlet flow 260 and/or 270 depending on the design of outlet 206.Therefore, in line with outlet 206, blade 210 comprises a first part 220and a second part 222 which extend along longitudinal axes preferablybeing identical to axis 260, 270 of outlet 206. Preferably, blade 210 issubstantially L-shaped.

According to a preferred embodiment, the blade has a thickness of about0.5 to 1.5 mm, preferably about 0.8 to 1 mm, a width of about 10 to 20mm, preferably 13 to 17 mm (depending on the size of the outletchannel), and a length of about 20 to 30 mm, preferably of about 23 to27 mm. The length of the blade is preferably at least about 5 to 10 mmand it preferably extends along the entire length of the outlet channel.The thickness of the blade may vary, e.g. for allowing improveddemoulding after being injection moulded.

In the shown embodiment, blade 210 is integrally formed with bladehousing part 202 a by means of injection moulding. Blade housing part202 b comprised a recess 226 for receiving blade 210. Blade housing part202 b preferably comprises an opening 240 (see FIG. 9) for receiving arotating member, e.g. impeller 300. In use (compare FIG. 6) opening 240is closed by motor 208.

According to another preferred embodiment, a blade generallycorresponding to blade 210 is alternatively or also provided in a blowerinlet 204 for splitting the inlet channel 204, which preferably extendsalong axial axis 250, into two, preferably parallel inlet channels.

FIG. 10 shows an exploded three dimensional view of blower 200 and motor208. As will be readily understood blower housing parts 200 a and 200 bincluding blade 210 can be individually assembled wherein a rotatingportion, e.g., impeller 300, is attached to drive axis of motor 208 andinserted into blower 200 via opening 240 provided in housing part 202 b.

Said opening 240 is preferably closed and sealed by the front face ofmotor 208, preferably using a sealing member 241. Motor 208 preferablycomprises a cable 500 to be discussed below.

It will be understood that the measures and dimensions referred to aboveare preferred and can be varied by up scaling or downscaling the size ofthe blower.

Although the shown embodiment comprises two outlet channels it will beunderstood that the outlet channel, according to further advantageousembodiments, may comprise more than two outlet channels, e.g., three orfour outlet channels. Such outlet channels can be achieved by providingmore than one, e.g. two or three generally parallel blades or byproviding two blades which are arranged generally vertically to oneanother. The same applies to a preferred blower inlet.

FIGS. 11a, 11b, 12a, and 12b show various views of a preferred impelleraccording to the present invention. Impeller 300 is preferably made ofone-piece moulded, preferably injection moulded, plastic construction;although other suitable materials or manufacturing techniques could beemployed. The impeller 300 comprises a plurality of vanes 302 extendingfrom a disk-like shroud 304.

Shroud 304 is, vis-à-vis the vanes 302, located further distanced fromthe air inlet or downstream when seen in the direction of the air flow.Vanes 302 extend from shroud 304 into an upstream direction. Shroud 304preferably incorporates a hub or bushing 306 that is adapted to receivea motor shaft 224. Shroud 304 is preferably of a disk-like shape havinga maximum outer diameter of about 38 to 46 mm, preferably of about 42mm. The radially outer tips of the vanes 302 preferably extend to theouter diameter of shroud 304. Preferably, the outer diameter of shroud304 has a wavy or saw tooth shape and varies between a minimum outerdiameter Dmin and a maximum outer diameter Dmax. Preferably, the maximumouter diameter Dmax is provided adjacent the radially outside tips ofthe vanes 302 while the minimum outer diameter Dmin is provided betweeneach of two neighbouring vanes or tips of vanes 302. Preferably, themaximum outer diameter Dmax lies in the range of about 38 to 46 mm andpreferably about 42 mm and/or the minimum outer diameter lies in therange of about 24 to 32 mm and preferably about 28 mm. Additionallyand/or alternatively, the difference between the maximum and minimumouter diameter is in the range of about 4 to 22 mm and preferably orabout 10 to 18 mm.

Additionally and/or alternatively, vanes 302 are curved in radialdirection and are preferably tapered in height in their radially outerportions. The reduced height at the tips of the vanes preferably reducesturbulences and/or noise as well as the inertia of the impeller 300.Preferably, vanes 302 have an inlet height, i.e. at their inner diameterwith regard to impeller's 300 axis where the air flow enters theimpeller which uniformly extends along a first portion of the vanes 302towards their (radially) outer end or tip. In a second portion of thevanes 302, which is preferably radially outwardly of the first portion,the height of the vanes 302 is reduced from a first height to a secondheight, being lower than the first height, wherein the second heightconstitutes the outlet height at the radially outer end of the vanes302. Preferably, the first part extends from a starting point at thevanes' inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotation until afirst intermediate diameter Dint1. The reduction in height starts fromthe first intermediate diameter towards their end at an outer diameter.The first intermediate diameter lies between the inner and outerdiameters. Preferably, the maximum height of a blade is about 4 to 6 mmand is preferably about 5 mm and/or the minimum height of a blade,preferably close to its tip at its outer diameter, is about 1.5 to 3.5mm, preferably about 2.8 mm. The geometry of the increase/decrease inheight is preferably aligned with the geometry of the housing orstationary part and preferably corresponds thereto. Preferably, thedifference between the inlet height and the outlet height, additionallyor alternatively to the above preferred height dimensions, of the vanes302 lies in the range of about 2.5 to 4.5 mm and more preferred of about2 to 2.5 mm. The height reduction is preferably linear and/or curved.

Preferably, the blades are substantially straight from their startingpoint at their inner diameter close to the impeller's axis of rotationuntil a second intermediate diameter Dint2; and are curved from saidsecond intermediate diameter Dint2 towards their end at the outerdiameter, the second intermediate diameter lying between the inner andouter diameter. In the shown embodiment, the second intermediatediameter Dint2 lies between the first intermediate diameter Dint1 andthe outer diameter Dmax. However, the second intermediate diameter Dint2may also lay between the inner diameter and the first intermediatediameter Dint1 or equal the first intermediate diameter Dint1. Thecurvature can be either positive or negative while it is preferably thatthe curvature is negative, i.e., against direction of rotation. Thepositive orientation of the curvature achieves an advantageous relationof pressure over flow, thus allowing a continuous and fast reaction ofthe blower/impeller on changes in flow.

The first intermediate diameter Dint1 is preferably about 20 to 24 mmand preferably about 22 mm and/or the second intermediate diameter Dint2is preferably about 21 to 25 mm and preferably about 22 to 24 mm.

Preferably, the vanes 302 have an inclination with respect to anassociated tangent at their tip of between 0° and 60°, e.g., about 40°(see FIG. 1a ).

Preferably, impeller 300 has 4 to 100 blades 302, e.g., 11, while thenumber is preferably uneven.

The impeller according to the present invention preferably has aninertia of less than about 3.2 g cm², preferably less than about 2.5 gcm² and more preferred of about and/or less than 2.2 g cm². Preferably,the inertia lies in a range between about 1.2 g cm², preferably 1.7 gcm² and the above upper values.

The impeller according to the present invention is preferably made ofplastic, preferably O₂ resistant plastic and/or preferably unfilledplastic material, such as a thermoplastic material.

The geometry and the design of the preferred impeller 300 according tothe present invention particularly allows a significant noise reductionvis-h-vis impellors known in the art and additionally provides acomparatively low inertia. In addition, the effectiveness of impellingor pumping air is significantly reduced. It will be understood that themeasures and dimensions referred to above are preferred and can bevaried by up scaling or downscaling the size of the impeller. It ispreferred that the impeller of this invention is used in combinationwith the blower of the invention.

FIGS. 13a-13c show the core 402 of a gasket 400 according to the presentinvention. FIG. 13a shows a view on the gasket core 402 from a firstside and FIG. 13b show a view of said gasket core from the oppositeside. FIG. 13c shows a view of the core 502 of said gasket 500 from athird side (perpendicular to the views of FIGS. 13a and 13b ).

The core of the gasket is preferably made of a comparatively hardmaterial, particularly when compared to an outer material of the gasket,and is preferably made of aluminium. Said core is provided with aplurality of structural elements for allowing air to flow through thegasket and/or for providing structural support, e.g., for a housing or ablower. Said gasket is provided with a skin or coating 404, preferablyof elastic plastic material and preferably made of silicon. FIGS.14a-14c , which are views of core 400 corresponding to the views shownin FIGS. 13a-13c with a silicon skin or coating 404 applied. Accordingto a preferred embodiment, due to manufacturing reasons, certain areasof core 402 remain uncoated. These areas, which result from the supportof the core 402 during the coating process are indicated as areas 406.It will be understood by the person skilled in the art that, dependingon the coating or manufacturing process, different areas than thoseshown in FIG. 14 can remain uncoated. For example, areas 406 can belarger or smaller or there can be more or less or even none of suchareas.

A gasket 400 comprises at least three holes or openings for defining anair path from a first side of gasket 400 to a second side of gasket 400and/or visa-versa. In the shown embodiments, gasket 400 comprises afirst hole 408 for allowing air to be sucked in from an air inlet at alow pressure area located on the second side of the gasket 400 into ablower located on the first side of the gasket. An opening or hole 410is provided for establishing a passage of pressurized air supplied by ablower to flow from the first side 450 of the gasket (as shown in FIG.14a ) to a second side 452 of the gasket (shown in FIG. 14b ). A thirdopening 412 is provided for allowing air to flow from a second side ofthe gasket (as shown in FIG. 14b ) in a still pressurized state to thefirst side of the gasket (shown in FIG. 14a ).

Preferably, gasket 400 contains further structural elements, such asrecesses, holes or protrusions, for allowing proper alignment and/orconnection of, e.g., a housing or parts of a housing with the gasket. Inthe shown embodiments, such a positioning and/or fastening means arerealized as, e.g., holes 414, 416 and 418.

Preferably, gasket 400 is provided with additional structural elementsfor allowing proper positioning, sealing connection, dampening and/orsupporting of parts attached to the basket or between the gasket andparts attached thereto. Such elements can be lips, rims, flanges,elevations, recesses or the like which can either be provided in thecore 402 of the gasket and/or in the gasket's coating 404. In the shownembodiment, respective structural elements are provided as part ofcoating 404. For example, there are provided rims 420, 422, 424 and 426.According to a preferred embodiment these rims 420-426 allow properalignment, additional support and/or improved sealing of elementscontacting gasket 400. For example, rim 420 co-operates with a blowerattached to the first side of gasket 400 while rims 422 and 424 and 426are adapted to co-operate with channels or chambers of a housing orparts of a housing attached to the gasket 400. Here, co-operationincludes mechanical and/or visual co-operation, the latter particularlyallowing improved assembly.

In the shown example, there are further provided support structures 428and 430 which are associated with the first and second holes,respectively. These structures 428, 430 are preferably adapted asstructures defining a hole or opening being aligned with the first hole408 and the second hole 410 as referred to above. In the following itwill thus only be referred to the first and second hole 408, 410 for theease of reference. Support structures 428 and 430 which can be alsoreferred to as the first support structure 428 and the second supportstructure 430 are preferably substantially circular but may take othergeometries. The opening 408, 410 provided by said first and secondsupport structure 428, 430, respectively, is preferably defined by aninner circumference of said support structures 428, 430. Said innercircumference, which may be provided by a rim, is preferably elasticallyconnected with gasket 400 and particularly with the core 402 of saidgasket 400. Such elastic connection may be achieved, e.g., by a foldedor bellow like structure, such as shown with regard to structure 428and/or by providing a portion of a thickened and/or thinnedcross-section, e.g., as shown with regard to structure 430. Here,structure 430 is provided, on the first side of gasket 400, with athickened rim 430 a which extends to the second side of gasket 400. Onthe second side of gasket 400, there may be provided an additionalrecess 430 a.

In the shown preferred embodiment, support structures 428 and 430provide a system for sealing connection and dampening of as well as forpositioning a blower to be connected with the gasket 400, preferably ablower 200 according to the present invention. The inlet channel 204 ofsuch blower then extends through first opening 408 while the outletchannel 206 extends through outlet 410. Gasket 400 is, on its first side450 on which the blower is preferably located, preferably provided withadditional positioning and support means 432 here adapted to be circularprotrusions 432 protruding from the first side of coated core 400.

FIGS. 15a-15c show core 400 in combination with a blower 200 includingmotor 208, preferably a blower in accordance with the present invention,and with fluid flow path members 460 and 462. FIG. 15a shows a viewgenerally corresponding to the one of FIG. 14c while the blower 200 isshown in a view corresponding to that of FIG. 6. As can be easily seen,blower 200 is attached to the first side 450 of gasket 400 with itsinlet channel 204 extending through opening 408 and its outlet channel206 extending through opening 410. As can also be seen, the blower 200is supported by support member 430 and additionally rests on or contactssupport members 432. Flow channel member 460 constitutes and defines afirst flow channel 460 a. Flow channel member 460 is located on a lowpressure side of blower 200 and fills a low pressure chamber (to bediscussed below) and constitutes a flow channel 460 a. Flow channelmember 460 is also referred to as low pressure flow channel member 460and is preferably made of a foamed material, preferably a silicone foamand preferably of a closed-cell silicone foam. Flow channel member 462defines a flow channel 462 located on a high pressure side of gasket 400and preferably fills a high pressure chamber (to be discussed below).Preferably, high pressure flow channel member 462 defines a first flowchannel 462 a and a second flow channel 462 b through which pressurizedair flows in opposite directions. Flow channels 462 a and 462 b may beestablished as one channel making a, e.g., 180°, turn, or may beestablished as, e.g., two, individual flow channels being directed inopposite or different directions while the turn or connection betweenthese channels is established by a flow directing means, e.g., part of ahousing.

As can be taken from, e.g., FIGS. 15a and 15b , flow path 460 a aspreferably defined by flow channel member 460 extends from a connectingmember 440 to through gasket 400 into blower 200. Connector 440preferably comprises a sensor 442, preferably a flow sensor, provided onor attached to a dampening and connecting member 446. Connector 440 ispreferably connected to housing 472 (see FIG. 16) to establish fluidconnection with flow path 460 a and is further adapted to be connectedto inlet member 600 (see, e.g., FIG. 18) to establish fluid connectionwith the inlet flow path. Connecting member 446 is preferably made ofelastic material and/or arranged to be connected to flow path housing472 and/or inlet member 600 by means of a plug-in connection. Due to itselastic properties, connecting member 446 preferably also functions as adampening member.

In the side view according to FIG. 15c (compare FIG. 16c ) sensing means448 of sensor 442 can be seen as well as flow channel parts 462 a and462 b. Through flow channel part 462 a outlet 206 and blade 210 ofblower 200 are visible.

FIGS. 16a, 16b and 16c show views corresponding to those of FIGS. 15a,15b and 15c wherein blower 200 and fluid channel members 460, 462 arecovered by a first flow path housing part 470 and a second flow pathhousing part 472. First flow path housing part 470 is attached to thefirst side 450 of gasket 400 and second flow path housing part 472 isattached to the second side 452 of gasket 400 (compare FIG. 14). Firstand second housing parts 470, 472 are provided with connection meanscorresponding to holes 414, 416, 418 of gasket 400 including, e.g.,protrusions, recesses and/or aligned bores for introducing fasteningscrews or bolts or the like. In FIGS. 16c and 16b , the respective meansare identified using the same reference numerals as with regard togasket 400, i.e., 414, 416 and 418.

The second flow path housing part 472 comprises an inlet 474 being influid communication with the first fluid flow path 460 a, opening 408and inlet channel 204 of blower 200, whereas the second housing part 470comprises an outlet opening or channel 476 being in fluid communicationwith fluid flow path 462 (462 a, 462 b), openings 410 and 412 as well aswith the outlet opening or channel 206 of blower 200.

At inlet 474 of second flow path housing part 472 there is preferablyprovided a support and/or noise shield 478. Preferably, shield 478supports and/or shields noise emitted from an inlet connector 440 (onlyconnecting member 446 forming part of connector 440 shown in FIG. 16a )for connecting second flow path housing part 472 with an air inletmember, preferably an inlet member 600 according to the presentinvention. Such connector 440 preferably comprises a flow sensor 442 forsensing the flow of the air or air and oxygen entering the flow pathhousing. To outlet 476 of first flow path housing part 470 there ispreferably connected an outlet connector 458 (not shown in FIG. 16),preferably a silicone bellow connector or decoupler, for connecting theflow path housing to a patient connector 456 (not shown in FIG. 16).

FIGS. 17a and 17b show views into the first and second part of housing470, 472, respectively. In particular, FIG. 17a shows a view along lineA-A indicated in FIG. 16a into first housing part 470, not includingblower 200. FIG. 17b shows a view taken along line B-B of FIG. 16a intothe second part of housing 472, not including flow channel members 460,462. As can be seen in FIG. 17a , housing part 470 is separated into twochambers, here by means of a separation wall 480. A first chamber 482 isadapted to accommodate and support blower 200 and motor 208 whilechamber 484 constitutes a high pressure chamber from which pressurizedair is directed towards the patient. Chamber 482 of first part ofhousing 470 is preferably provided with supports means 496 forsupporting blower 200, and particularly the end of motor 208.

FIG. 17b shows the second housing part 472 also being divided into twochambers, a low pressure chamber 486 and a high pressure chamber 488.Preferably, these chambers are defined and separated by means of aseparation wall 490. Low pressure chamber 486 comprises an inlet chamber464 and is adapted for accommodating or being filled with the first flowchannel member 460. Second chamber 488 constitutes a high pressurechamber and is adapted to house second flow channel member 462.Preferably, high pressure chamber 488 of the second housing part 472comprises spacing means 492 for spacing flow channel member 462vis-à-vis the back wall 494 of said high pressure chamber 488. Accordingto a preferred embodiment, said structure allows the definition of adistance between back wall 494 and flow channel member 462 so that airflowing from the blower 200 in a pressurized state through channel 462 ais redirected by the back wall 494 of the second housing 472 to thenenter flow channel 462 b in a direction generally opposite to the onethrough channel 462 a. The pressurized air flow is then redirectedthrough gasket 400 and through opening 412 into the high pressurechamber 484 of the first housing part 470. Preferably, high pressurechamber 484 is also filled with a flow channel member (not shown)providing a flow path.

According to a preferred embodiment, outlet 476 of a first housing part470 is displaced in the view according to FIG. 17a so that it is, inthis view, hidden by the back wall of blower chamber 482.

The gasket and the further structures described above are arranged assuch that the air flow, as indicated by arrows in FIGS. 15a and 16a ,enters the air path at opening 474 to then flow through low pressurechannel 460 a and gasket 400 through opening 408 and entering blower 200at inlet 204. The air is then accelerated and pressurized, as describedabove, and exits blower 200 at outlet opening 206 passing gasket 400 atopening 210 from the first side of the gasket to its second side. Thepressurized air flow then flows through high pressure channel 462 a inhigh pressure chamber 488, is then redirected by approximately 90° byback wall 494 of high pressure chamber 488 and flows along the spaceestablished between high pressure flow channel member 462 and back wall494 by means of spacers 492. The flow of air is then again redirected toflow into high pressure flow channel 462 b, preferably in substantiallythe opposite direction to the flow of air through first high pressurechannel 462 a and passes gasket 400 through opening 412 from gasket'ssecond side to the first side of the gasket. The pressured air flow thusenters high pressure chamber 484 provided in the first housing part 470and is directed to outlet 476 where the pressurized air exits the airpath.

The gasket 400 according to the present invention, particularly incombination with further features of the air path such as the firsthousing part 470 and/or the second housing part 472 and preferably inadditional combination with blower 200 and/or one or more of the airpath members allows a compact, efficient and effective flow patharrangement which is easy to produce, to assemble and to maintain. Inparticular, the flow path as discussed above can be assembled as asingle module which can be easily inserted into a ventilation device andindividually exchanged to replace without major efforts. Air pathassembly is particularly beneficial as regards the power andeffectiveness of the blower required to provide a desired pressure to apatient and for reacting on changes in the desired flow and/or pressure.Furthermore, the air path of the present invention emits less noise bothvia the structural components and via the air flow.

FIG. 18 shows a three dimensional top view of a preferred air pathaccording to the present invention. The air path starts with an inletmember, preferably inlet member 600 according to the invention and to bedescribed below from which air flows through a connector portion 440into flow path housing 470/472. Connector portion 440 is preferablyprovided as or comprises a flexible, preferably made of silicone, tubeportion 446 which can be plugged into to flow path housing outlet 474and/or inlet member 600. Connector portion 440 preferably comprises aflow sensor 442. At the outlet 476 of flow path housing 470 there ispreferably provided a patient connector 456 which is preferably flexiblycoupled to outlet 474 by means of a decoupling member or outletconnector 458, preferably a silicone bellow structure. Between thedecoupling member 458 and the patient connector 456 or in decouplingmember 458 there are preferably provided ports for or at least parts ofa pressure sensor 466 for sensing pressure of the breathing gas appliedto a patient.

FIG. 18 also shows support members 482 provided on housing parts 470,472 for advantageously supporting the flow path in a breathing device(to be further discussed below). Said support members are provided withelastic dampeners 468, preferably made of silicone. Housing parts 470and/or 472 preferably comprise rips 486 provided at one side thereof,preferably at its/their lower side when seen in the orientation of thehousing in a breathing device in operation.

FIGS. 19a-19b show a cable in accordance with the present invention. Thecable 500 comprises one or more, in the shown embodiments 5 metal wires,here stranded wires or litz wires 510. Stranded wires or litz wires 510may be of equal or differing size or diameter. In the embodiment of FIG.19a wires 510 are located next to one another. In the embodiment of FIG.19b cable 500, here referred to as 500′, comprises 9 wires 510 arrangedin a different order such as in a circle around a centre wire 510. Apartfrom the alignment of wires 510, the embodiments shown in FIGS. 19a and19b correspond to one another. Wires 510 are embedded in a siliconecoating 520 which functions both as a coating for each individual wire510, as positioning means for each wire 510 with regard to neighbouringwires 510 and/or as self sealing skin allowing the cable 500, 500′ to besealingly arranged between two or more separate components without theneed for additional sealing material. Preferably, silicone coating 520has a thickness of at least 0.5 mm, preferably of at least 0.6 mm andpreferably of at least about 0.7 mm, measured along the shortestdistance from the outer circumference or outer surface of cable 500,500′ to one of the litz wires 510.

The cable 500, 500′ according to the present invention constitutes aself-sealing cable which provides insulation of different metal wires,such as different stranded or litz wires, vis-à-vis one another as wellas vis-à-vis the surrounding. Any desired predefined schematicarrangement of wires 510 constituting cable 500, 500′ can bemanufactured in a predefined way which is individualized for the desiredpurpose. The silicone coating of the cable 500 and each of wires 510allows an effective and improved sealing not only of cable 500 vis-à-visits exterior. Cable 500, 500′ can also advantageously be clamped betweentwo parts of, e.g., a housing, wherein an improved sealing of theinterior of the housing against the exterior of the housing (or viceversa) is achieved by a cable 500 according to the present invention.Cable 500 particularly allows to be run into or out of a high pressurechamber without negatively influencing the pressure relations existingin the chamber.

FIG. 20a shows a side view of an inlet member 600 according to thepresent invention as seen in a back view of a ventilation device, e.g.,such as in FIG. 4. and FIG. 20b show a top view of said inlet member 600and FIG. 20c shows a bottom view. FIG. 20d shows a side view seen in anopposite direction of the view shown in FIG. 20 a.

Inlet member 600 comprises an inlet housing 602 comprising at least afirst inlet housing part 604 and a second inlet housing part 606.According to the shown embodiment, the housing comprises an additionalthird inlet housing part 608. The first part 604 of the filter housingcomprises and/or defines air inlets 610 (which according to a preferredembodiment correspond to air inlet 110 of the ventilation devicediscussed with regard to, e.g., FIG. 4). According to a preferredembodiment, one or more air inlets 610, 110 comprise an air shielddeflecting the air entering the housing and dampening noise from insidethe ventilation device. Such air shield preferably extends from theinner side of the first part, preferably from a portion below the airinlet(s), at least partly along the opening, preferably extending acrossthe opening at an angle to the plane of the opening. Seen in a directionof the air flow through the air inlet(s) the shield preferably at leastpartly crosses the air flow. Preferably, the inlet(s) define openings ina vertical surface of the first part. An outlet 612 is provided in thethird part 608 of housing 602. The inlet member 600 also comprises asecond inlet 618 (according to a preferred embodiment corresponding toinlet 118 discussed above, e.g., with regard to FIG. 4). Such secondinlet 618, preferably for the supply of additional oxygen, is providedin the first 604 or second 608 inlet housing part. In the shownpreferred embodiment the second inlet 618 is provided by a second inletmember 662 connected to the second inlet housing part 608 while firstinlet housing part 604 is provided with an opening or cut out 614allowing access to the second inlet from the exterior of inlet member600. FIGS. 21a to 21b show a preferred embodiment of a first inlethousing part 606 while the views shown correspond to those of FIG. 20.FIGS. 22a to 22d show a preferred embodiment of a second inlet housingpart 604 while the views shown correspond to those of FIG. 20. In FIG.22b and FIG. 22c (top and bottom view) also the third inlet housing part608 is shown, which, however, is not shown in FIGS. 22a and 22 d.

First housing part 604 comprises an inlet opening, preferably extendingalong a large area, which is adapted to be covered by an inlet filter620. First inlet housing part 604, inlet filter 620, second inlethousing part 606 and third inlet housing part 608 are arranged such thatair flowing into the inlet member 600 through air inlet 610 flows alongan inlet or filter path through filter 620 and then into an inletchamber 622 defined between inlet filter 620 and an air outlet 612defined in the third inlet housing part 608. From that inlet chamber 622the inlet path further extends, preferably through a second inletchamber 624 defined between/by the second part of the housing 606 andthe third part of the inlet housing 608. Said second chamber 624preferably functions as a muffling chamber and is preferably filled withan inlet flow path member 626 defining an inlet flow path. From thesecond chamber 624 the inlet path preferably extends out of the inletmember 600 through outlet opening 612.

Preferably, the oxygen inlet 618 opens into an oxygen channel in member662 which extends from the oxygen inlet 618 through the opening 614 ofthe first inlet housing part 604 along the second housing part 606wherein it preferably extends parallel and distinct to inlet filter 620and the first inlet chamber 622.

A second inlet housing part 606 preferably comprises a first outletopening 630 being in fluid communication with the inlet air flow and thefirst inlet chamber 622 as well as a second outlet opening 632 being influid communication with and constituting the end of the oxygen inletchannel. First or air outlet 630 and second or oxygen outlet 632 arepreferably arranged in a substantially coaxial manner. Air outlet 630and oxygen outlet 632 preferably open into the second inlet chamber 624.Preferably, air outlet 630 has a ring-shaped cross section or geometrywhile oxygen outlet 632 has a ring-shaped configuration, preferablysurrounding second outlet opening 632. Thus, outlets 630, 632 arearranged such that the air flow through the air inlet 610 and throughthe filter 620 is mixed with the oxygen supplied through the oxygeninlet 618, with regard to the direction of air and oxygen flow, afterthe air inlet flow and the oxygen inlet flow have passed the second partof the inlet housing 606 through air outlet 630 and oxygen outlet 632,respectively, and, preferably, in second inlet chamber 624. Said mixingis supported by the directed flow provided by the geometry of thesubstantially coaxially arranged outlets and starts in the second inletchamber 624 and is further promoted throughout the flow through the airpath. Thus, an excellent mixing of air and additions, such as oxygen, isachieved until the airflow reaches the patient. Preferably, thering-shaped air outlet 630 extends around oxygen outlet opening 632.

It will be well understood that the first part of the inlet housing 604,according to a preferred embodiment, primarily serves as a shield orcover for protecting inlet filter 620 from being damaged in use, fornoise shielding and reduction and simultaneously serves for opticallyintegrating inlet member 600 into a ventilation device, e.g., a devicediscussed with regard to FIGS. 2 to 5 of the present invention.

The basic structure of a preferred embodiment of the second inlethousing part 606 is preferably as follows. Second inlet housing part 606comprises a substantially planar base wall 640 from which, on at leastone side thereof, side walls extend defining, together with base wall640 an open chamber. In the shown embodiment, side walls 642 define,together with base wall 640 an open first inlet chamber 622. Side walls644 define, together with base wall 640 an open second inlet chamber624. As discussed above, first inlet chamber 622 is closed by filterelement 620. Second inlet chamber 624 is closed by third inlet housingpart 608. Preferably, third inlet housing part 608 is configured asubstantially planar lid with a channel like, preferably substantiallycircular, protrusion defining outlet 612.

Filter element 620 is shown in FIGS. 23a to 23c of which FIG. 23a showsa preferred embodiment of filter 620 in a side view (compare FIGS. 20a,20b ). FIG. 23b shows filter element 620 in accordance with the viewshown in FIG. 23a connected to second inlet housing part 606. FIG. 23cshows a top view according to FIG. 22b with second inlet housing part606 and inlet filter 620. Filter element 620 comprises a frame 652 aswell as a filter material 654 connected to the frame 652. The filterelement 620 and thus its frame 652 and filter material 654, preferablygenerally extend in one or at least one plane. The frame 652 ispreferably endless and more preferably of generally oval or rectangularconfiguration defining a plane, preferably plane of the filter element,in which the filter material 654 extends. The filter element preferablyextends across the cross section of the air path between the air inletand the air outlet to ensure that all air entering the device flowsthrough the filter and is thus filtered. It will thus be appreciatedthat the filter element may take other forms than the ones referred toherein. It is, however, preferred that the filter element has asubstantially planar extension or configuration. Preferably, the filterelement 620 comprises a cut-out, recess or opening 656, particular forallowing the extension of the additional or second inlet or thecorresponding second inlet path past the filter element (see FIGS. 23a,23c and 22b ), without having to flow through the filter. Thisparticularly allows the parallel supply from ambient air and oxygenalong to separate flow paths which can then be combined or mixeddownstream of the filter element. This improves the possibility ofproper mixing the ambient air with an additional supply of oxygen and atthe same time reduces the loss of the supplied oxygen, e.g., via the airinlet. The oxygen inlet path, which preferably has a channel likeconfiguration, thus extends from the oxygen inlet, preferably formingpart of the second part of the inlet housing along the filter element tothe outlet provided in the second part of the housing. The oxygen inletpath is thus preferably part of the second part of the inlet housing.Preferably, the inlet path protrudes from the second part of the inlethousing and extends up to or through the first part of the inlethousing. Preferably, the first part of the inlet housing is providedwith an opening or recess for allowing easy accessibility of the oxygeninlet. The oxygen inlet is preferably provided with a connection meansfor connecting an oxygen supply (not shown).

The filter material is connected to the filter frame, preferably bymeans of gluing or bonding. However, it will be understood thatdifferent technologies may be applied. The filter frame is preferablymade of a plastic material. According to a preferred embodiment, asealing or positioning means such as a rim or lip is provided forallowing proper positioning and/or improved sealing contact of thefilter frame with regard to the first and/or second part of the filterhousing. Such sealing or positioning means can either be provided on theframe and/or on the first and/or second part of the housing. The filterframe is preferably made from elastic material, such as TPE. Thispreferably allows improved sealing of the filter in the housing andreduces bypass flow.

The second inlet chamber 624 preferably constitutes a muffling chamberwhich is preferably filled with a muffling material, preferably a foammaterial such as silicone foam, which preferably defines a part of aninlet flow channel. The muffling chamber 640 also comprises an outletopening 612 adapted to be connected to a flow path of a breathingdevice, preferably a flow path of a breathing device according to thepresent invention. Since, according to a preferred embodiment, the flowof air and oxygen are mixed, preferably upon entry into the inletmuffling chamber and/or along the inlet fluid flow path, the inletmuffling chamber comprised only one outlet through which the combinedflow of air and oxygen flows.

The inlet housing parts 604, 606, 608 preferably comprise fasteningmeans for connecting the different housing parts with one another and/orwith a breathing device. Preferably, such fastening means are known tothe person skilled in the art such as snap-fit fastening means, hole andpin, or screw-hole connections.

FIG. 24 shows an exploded view of the inlet member according to FIGS.19a to 22d . Here, the relation and orientation of first inlet memberhousing part 604, second inlet member housing part 606, third inletmember housing part 608, filter element 620, inlet flow path member 626as well as second channel 662 and oxygen inlet 618 can be readily seen.

The invention additionally and alternatively relates to a modularventilation or breathing device as referred to above and particularlyfor use with a blower, impeller, gasket, air path and/or inlet memberaccording to the present invention.

The respiration or ventilation device 100 according to the presentinvention is preferably of an advantageous modular structure andcomprises a housing module 720, preferably corresponding to housing 104as referred to above, provided with operator input and display means.Additionally, there is provided an electric module 740, preferablycomprising a skeleton carrier for carrying, i.a., a control unit,battery pack 742, power supply 744 and further electronics required, forproviding structural support and/or for allowing defined positioning ofthe modules and parts of the ventilation device. The ventilation device100 further comprises an air path module 760 comprising an air pathhousing, comprising an air path inlet and an air path outlet, in which ablower is located. Preferably, the air path (here also referred to asair path 400) is the air path according to the present inventioncomprising air path housing 470, 472, gasket 400 etc. while the gasketand/or the air path housing carries a blower 200 including a motor 208,preferably the blower according to the present invention.

Preferably, the air path module includes an inlet member, preferably theinlet member 600 in accordance with the present invention and/or apatient connector 456. Preferably, inlet member 600 is connected to airpath 400 via a plug-in bushing 458, preferably made of silicone andcomprising flow sensor 466. Preferably, bushing 458 also serves fordampening and decoupling inlet member 600 from air path housing 400.Preferably, patient connector 456 is connected to air path 400 via aconnector member 458, preferably being arranged as a bellow likesilicone member for dampening and decoupling patient connector 456 fromair path housing 470, 472.

Preferably, inlet member 600 comprises two fastening bores 722 whereinpatient connector 456 also comprises two fastening bores 724.Preferably, air path housing 470, 472 comprises structural locationmembers 482 which may be provided with dampening elements 468.

The electric module 740 is preferably further adapted to be connected toand support the housing of the ventilation device as well as to supportand/or position the air path module. In addition, the skeleton carrierand/or the electric module is preferably adapted to and comprises meansfor allowing a proper alignment and positioning of the different partsand modules of the ventilation device such as the parts of the housingmodule and/or the air path element. The electric module preferablycomprises the power supply 744, battery or accumulator pack 742, controlunit and/or a display unit. Skeleton member preferably comprises support722, 724 structures being, in an assembled state, aligned with fasteningbores 722, 724 provided in the inlet member 200 and/or the patientconnector 456. Skeleton member furthermore comprises positioning means728 for cooperating with location members 482 of the air path housing.

The housing module 720 comprises an upper housing part 720 a and a lowerhousing part 720 b (compare discussion of FIGS. 3 to 5 with regard tohousing parts 140 a and 104 b, preferably corresponding to housing part720 a and720 b).

Air path module 760, which comprises every part of the air path, i.e.every part of the ventilation device being in contact with inhaled orexhaled air, is laid into the lower part 720 b of housing module 720.For supporting air path module 760 in housing module 720 there ispreferably provided a dampening and/or supporting pad 730 whichcomprises structural means, preferably raised portions 732, forsupporting air path module 760. Preferably, support structures 732 areadapted to cooperate with structural support means 486 provided on oneor both parts of air path housing 470, 472. Preferably raised supportstructures 732 and raised support structures 486 are adapted aselongated means, e.g., elongate rims, wherein the support structures 432of the supporting pad 730 and the support structures 486 of the air pathpreferably extend into different directions and preferably extendgenerally transverse to one another. This preferably improves proper,easy and secure positioning. The air path module 760 is simply laid intolower part 720 b of housing module 720 without the need for any furtherfastening or connection members. The air path is positioned such, thatholes 722 and 724 provided in inlet member 200 and patient connector456, respectively, are aligned with corresponding holes 722 b and 724 bprovided in the lower housing part 720 b. Preferably, holes 722 b and724 b are provided in protruding posts which are in aligned contact withinlet member 200 and patient connector 456.

Preferably, the device comprises a fan (not shown) placed on the lowerpart 720 b of housing module 720 and, preferably, corresponding with acorresponding opening or air inlet (not shown) provided in said lowerpart. The location of the fan is preferably such that, after assembly,the fan is positioned below the electric module 740 and preferably belowpower supply 744 and/or battery or accumulator pack 742. Preferably, thefan is adapted and positioned to direct an air flow along power supply744 and/or battery or accumulator pack 742. The air flow may thenadvantageously be directed along the electric module 740 to the inletmember 600 being provided with respective air outlet openings. The airflow provided by the fan is defined and separated from the air flowentering the device and being provided to the patient. Such air flow ispreferably adapted to cool one or more electric components. This mayimprove operation of the device and/or the charging process of theaccumulator pack.

Preferably, the fan is supported, preferably clamped, in the devicebetween lower part 720 b and electric module 740. Preferably, no screwsor fasting means are used. The fan preferably comprises an elastic,preferably silicone, jacket or sheath extending around at least part ofthe (rigid) fan housing. Such elastic structure may allow the fan to beproperly dampened, positioned and/or handled. Preferably, the lower part720 b of housing module 720, the electric module 740 and/or the elasticjacket comprise(s) structural means for properly positioning the fan inthe device. Such solution particularly allows the provision of anadvantageous fan which can easily be handled, properly positioned andadvantageously supported in the device, particularly improving noisereduction. Preferably, the silicone jacket and the air inlet providedthe lower part 720 b are aligned in a sealing manner, sealing air pathof the air entering the inlet and the fan against the surrounding insidethe device. The elastic, preferably silicone, jacket is thus preferablymultifunctional in that it provides mechanical support, servers sealingpurposes, and dampens or decouples the fan from the housing.

Then, the electric module 740 is placed over the air path module.Electric module 740, preferably its skeleton member, is provided withfastening means or holes 722 and 724 which are aligned with fasteningmeans or holes 722 and 724 of the air path module 740. In addition,electric module 740 comprises support structures 728 which cooperatewith support structures 468, 482 of the air path module 760 and thusallow proper positioning and securing in place of air path module 740.Next, the upper part of the housing module 720 a is placed over theelectric module 740. Hosing module 720 a comprises fastening structuresof holes 722 and 724 corresponding to and aligned with respective holes722, 724 of the lower housing module 720, holes 722, 724 of the air pathmodule 760 and holes 722, 724 of the electric module 740. By screwing ascrew into these holed, the parts of the housing module are then screwedto one another, thereby simultaneously fixing and securing the positionof the air path module and the electric module, generally without theneed for further fixation. Preferably, one or more of fastening means orholes 722, 724 comprises an end stop (not shown) serving as an abutmentfor air path module in case of excessive movement of the air pathmodule, e.g. resulting from a strong hit against the device.

While the invention has been illustrated and described in detail in thedrawings and foregoing description, such illustration and descriptionare to be considered illustrative or exemplary and non-restrictive; theinvention is thus not limited to the disclosed embodiments. Variationsto the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by thoseskilled in the art and practicing the claimed invention, from a study ofthe drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. In the claims,the word “comprising” does not exclude other elements or steps, and theindefinite article “a” or “an” does not exclude a plurality. A singleunit may fulfil the functions of several items recited in the claims.The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually differentdependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measurescan not be used to advantage. Any reference signs in the claims shouldnot be considered as limiting the scope.

The invention also covers all further features shown in the figuresindividually although they may not have been described in the aforedescription. The present invention covers further embodiments with anycombination of features from different embodiments described above.

The present invention also covers the exact terms, features, values andranges etc. in case these terms, features, values and ranges etc. areused in conjunction with terms such as about, around, generally,substantially, essentially, at least etc. (i.e., “about 3” shall alsocover exactly 3 or “essentially radial” shall also cover exactlyradial).

1. Gasket for use in a breathing or ventilation device for providing asupply of air at positive pressure and for sealingly separatingdifferent areas of a flow path, preferably high pressure areas of aventilation and breathing device from low or ambient pressure areas, thegasket comprising a core of a comparatively hard material and an outerlayer being of a comparatively soft material as compared to the core. 2.Gasket according to claim 1, wherein the core is made of aluminiumand/or wherein the outer layer is made of silicone, said outer layercovering substantially the entire gasket.
 3. Gasket according to claim1, wherein the core and/or the outer layer is/are provided with one ormore structural elements, particularly for allowing sealing contact,positioning, suspension and/or dampening of a blower and/or a housingdefining an air path.
 4. Gasket according to claim 1, wherein the gasketis of substantially planar shape.
 5. Gasket according to claim 1,wherein the gasket has two sides, a first side for sealingly contactingand closing a first part of a housing and a second side for sealinglycontacting and closing a second part of a housing thereby definingdifferent areas or compartments such as high pressure areas and lowpressure areas.
 6. Gasket according to claim 1, wherein the gasketcomprises at least two and preferably at least three, also preferredthree, openings or holes for allowing an air flow to be directed fromone side of the gasket to its other side.
 7. Gasket according to claim1, wherein the gasket comprises openings or holes being provided withsupport structures, established by the outer layer.
 8. Flow path for abreathing or ventilation device for providing a supply of air atpositive pressure, the flow path comprising first flow path housing parthaving an air outlet and being in sealing contact with a first side of agasket according to claim 1 and a second flow path housing part havingan air inlet and being in sealing contact with a second side of saidgasket.
 9. The flow path according to claim 8, further comprising ablower being supported by said gasket and being located inside the firsthousing part.
 10. The flow path according to claim 8, the first flowpath housing having a generally cup like structure, preferably beingseparated into at least two chambers by a separation wall, wherein thegasket sealingly closes the cup like structure and preferably each ofthe at least two chambers and/or the second flow path housing having agenerally cup like structure, preferably being separated into at leasttwo chambers by a separation wall, wherein the gasket sealingly closesthe cup like structure and preferably each of the at least two chambers.11. The flow path according to claim 8, the blower and its motor beingsupported in the flow path on one end of the motor by means of the firstflow path housing and on the fluid inlet and/or the fluid outlet of theblower by means of the gasket, preferably by support structures providedat the openings for allowing air to flow form one side of the gasket tothe other side.
 12. The flow path according to claim 8, wherein the flowpath is arranged such that breathable gas flowing along the flow pathcrosses the gasket at least twice and preferably three times, preferablyby flowing through at least two and preferably three openings or holesprovided in the gasket.
 13. Self sealing cable, particularly for usewith a blower, impeller, gasket or air path according to claim 1, thecable comprising a plurality of metal wires, the cables being providedwith one silicone coating only.
 14. Cable according to claim 13, thewires being stranded wires or litz wires.
 15. Cable according to claim13, comprising at least three, preferably five or more wires.
 16. Cableaccording to claim 13, the silicone coating serving as a coating foreach individual wire, as positioning means for each wire vis-à-vis itsneighbouring wires, and as self sealing skin allowing the cable to besealingly clamped between two components, preferably without the needfor additional sealing material.
 17. Cable according to claim 13,wherein the silicone coating has a thickness of at least 0.5 mm,preferably of at least 0.6 mm and preferably of at least about 0.7 mm,measured along the shortest distance from the outer surface of the cableto one of the wires.
 18. Inlet member for a ventilation or breathingdevice, comprising a first inlet for receiving a first fluid flow,preferably an ambient air flow, and a second inlet for receiving asecond fluid flow, preferably an oxygen flow, the inlet member defininga first and second fluid flow path and comprising a first and secondoutlet, respectively, the first outlet being of a ring like shape, thesecond outlet being arranged coaxially to the first inlet and/or beingsurrounded by the generally ring shaped first outlet.
 19. Inlet memberaccording to claim 18, comprising a housing having at least one inlethousing part being provided with the first fluid flow path outlet andthe second fluid flow path outlet.
 20. Inlet member according to claim18, comprising a filter element extending over the whole cross sectionof the first fluid flow path.